Category Archives: Book of Mormon Lessons
3 Nephi 1-7
Posted onTable of Contents
3 Nephi CHAPTER 1 Nephi, the son of Helaman, departs out of the land, and his son Nephi keeps the records—Though signs and wonders abound, the wicked plan to slay the righteous—The night of Christ’s birth arrives—The sign is given, and a new star arises—Lyings and deceivings increase, and the Gadianton robbers slaughter many. About A.D. 1–4.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 2 Wickedness and abominations increase among the people—The Nephites and Lamanites unite to defend themselves against the Gadianton robbers—Converted Lamanites become white and are called Nephites. About A.D. 5–16.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 3 Giddianhi, the Gadianton leader, demands that Lachoneus and the Nephites surrender themselves and their lands—Lachoneus appoints Gidgiddoni as chief captain of the armies—The Nephites assemble in Zarahemla and Bountiful to defend themselves. About A.D. 16–18.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 4 The Nephite armies defeat the Gadianton robbers—Giddianhi is slain, and his successor, Zemnarihah, is hanged—The Nephites praise the Lord for their victories. About A.D. 19–22.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 5 The Nephites repent and forsake their sins—Mormon writes the history of his people and declares the everlasting word to them—Israel will be gathered in from her long dispersion. About A.D. 22–26.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 6 The Nephites prosper—Pride, wealth, and class distinctions arise—The Church is rent with dissensions—Satan leads the people in open rebellion—Many prophets cry repentance and are slain—Their murderers conspire to take over the government. About A.D. 26–30.
3 Nephi CHAPTER 7 The chief judge is murdered, the government is destroyed, and the people divide into tribes—Jacob, an anti-Christ, becomes king of a secret combination—Nephi preaches repentance and faith in Christ—Angels minister to him daily, and he raises his brother from the dead—Many repent and are baptized. About A.D. 30–33.
3 Nephi 1
A new star appeared when Jesus Christ was born.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 1-7”
- This week’s activity page can help your children learn about the miracles the Nephites witnessed when Jesus was born. You can also use “Chapter 41: The Signs of Christ’s Birth” (Book of Mormon Stories, 114–16) to teach them this story—or to help them tell it to you.
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 41: The Signs of Christ’s Birth” Images and Video
Before class, place a star on the wall. Invite the children to look for something on the wall that usually isn’t there. Tell the children that the Nephites saw a new star in the sky when Jesus was born. Summarize the account in 3 Nephi 1:4–15 and 19–21.
Show the children a picture of the Savior’s birth Help the children understand that the Nephites were far away from where Jesus was born, but they knew He was born because of the signs they saw. Testify that even though we did not see the Savior’s birth, the Holy Ghost can help us know that the stories about it in the scriptures are true.
Friend September 2020 “Family Night Fun”
“From the First Presidency: The Light of the World” (Dec. 2019 Friend)
Lesson 32: Signs in America of Jesus Christ’s Birth
The prophets’ words are always fulfilled.
Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7 The Lord told Nephi, “I [will] show unto the world that I will fulfill all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets” (3 Nephi 1:13).The account in 3 Nephi 1:4–21 can help build the children’s faith that God always keeps His promises.
- Read to the children 3 Nephi 1:20, and share your testimony that the words of prophets are always fulfilled. Invite the children to listen to the prophet at the next general conference.
- Invite the children to compare the prophecy of Samuel the Lamanite in Helaman 14:1–7 with its fulfillment in 3 Nephi 1:19–21. Testify that God’s promises spoken through His prophets are always fulfilled.
- How can we show our trust in God when we are worried or discouraged?
- Share something that our living prophet has promised us. What can we do to show our faith that the prophet’s words came from God?
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 1-7”
- As you and your children read 3 Nephi 1:4–10, invite them to talk about how it might have felt to be one of the believers living at that time. Then, as they read the rest of the account in verses 11–15, they could suggest ways to complete this sentence: “The lesson of this story for me is …”
- Maybe your children can help you think of other times when God fulfilled His promises given through His prophet. They might like to find pictures of these stories in the Gospel Art Book (see, for example, nos. 7–8 and 81). Let them share what they know about these stories, including how God’s promises were fulfilled. Read together 3 Nephi 1:20, and share your own witness of these truths.
3 Nephi 2-4
Forgetting spiritual experiences makes me vulnerable to Satan’s temptations.
The Nephites started to fall into wickedness as they let themselves forget the signs of the birth of Jesus Christ and the miracles they had seen. Similarly, if we forget our spiritual experiences, it will be easier for us to drift away from the gospel. Ensign September 2020 “Come, Follow Me: Book of Mormon—Support Articles and Activities September 7–13”
Ask the children if any of them would like to share a spiritual experience they have had. Ideas could include answers to prayers, warm feelings when reading the scriptures, etc.
What can you do to better remember the past spiritual experiences you have had? Consider writing them down. You could also share them with your family (Sharing your experience can bring back the Spirit. It can also help the other person to feel the Spirit). Ensign September 2020 “How can we keep from forgetting spiritual experiences?”
“Jared’s Journal.” In this Friend story, Jared learns he can color in a journal to remember important things.
“Scripture Journal.” This activity idea from the Friend can help your children start writing what they learn from the scriptures. Includes a doorknob tag to print and cut out.
Ensign September 2020 “Family Study Fun: Remembering Jar”
Read 3 Nephi 2:1–3 together and talk about how some people “began to forget those signs and wonders which they had heard.” Then play an activity to help your family remember God all week.
- Label a jar “God loves me.”
- Give each family member a small piece of paper and ask them to write down a blessing God has given them. Put the papers in the jar.
- Encourage family members to add more papers to the jar as they notice blessings during the week.
- At the end of the week, pick a handful of papers to read out loud and talk about.
Discussion: Why do you think the adversary wants us to forget the spiritual “wonders” we notice in our lives? How can we remember God every day?.
To help your family learn how Satan can deceive us, draw a body, and as your family reads 3 Nephi 2:1–3 and 6:15–17, mark the different parts of the body mentioned. According to these verses, what are some of the ways Satan tempts us to forget God and turn to sin?
We are stronger when we gather together.
3 Nephi 2:11–12; 3:13–14, 24–26
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 1-7”
- Help your children discover why the Nephites gathered together and the blessings that came to them in 3 Nephi 2:11–12 and 3:13–14, 24–26. Why is it important for us to gather today in our families and at church? (How can gathering make us spiritually stronger?)
“The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).
Draw on the chalkboard several trees with their root systems intertwined (see illustration). Ask the children to suggest strengths and spiritual qualities they see in others. Label some of the roots with their ideas, and discuss how each individual’s strengths can help strengthen the whole group.
Help the children understand that when we stand together and support each other, as members of families or members of the Church, it is easier for us to remain firm in our beliefs and do the right things.
- Do you know of an object lesson that teaches about the strength of unity? Maybe your children could try breaking one stick and then a bundle of sticks or tearing one piece of paper and then a stack of papers. How are we like the sticks or the papers?
- Stand together in the center of the room.
- Choose one person to walk through the middle of the group.
- Repeat the exercise but this time as a group stand closer together, linking arms and hands if possible.
Discussion: How are we more protected from outside influences as we stand stronger and closer together? How does greater unity protect us?
Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7
- Explain that Jesus is gathering His people into the Church today through missionary work (see 3 Nephi 5:24–26). Invite a full-time missionary or ward missionary to share experiences showing how people have been strengthened by being gathered into the Church.
Friend September 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Gathering Game”
- Jesus Christ promised He would gather all His children because He loves everyone and wants them to have the gospel (see 3 Nephi 5:24). Play a game about gathering. Have players stand in a circle. One person in the middle says a fact about themself, like their favorite color. If that fact is true for anyone else, they come to the middle too. Keep going till everyone is gathered in the middle.
- For younger children: Play hide and seek with your little ones. Give them a big hug when you find them. Talk about how Jesus Christ promises He’ll gather us no matter where we are.
Friend September 2024 “Jesus Gathers Us Like a Hen Gathers Her Chicks”
Fortifying Our Homes
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7
- What did the Nephites do to protect themselves from the enemy they faced? What are we doing to make our home a place of safety and protection from the evil in the world?
Turn to the Lord for Help
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7
- What did the Nephites do when they saw the Gadianton robbers coming? What can our family learn from the Nephites when we face difficult situations? What can we learn from the Nephites’ words after the Lord helped them in their time of difficulty?
Friend March 1988 “Scriptural Giants” Lachoneus and Gidggidoni
3 Nephi 5-7
I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.
3 Nephi 5:12–26; 6:14; 7:15–26
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 1-7”
- After reading together 3 Nephi 5:13, invite your children to repeat the phrase “I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.” To learn what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, read together some of these examples: the converted Lamanites (see 3 Nephi 6:14), Mormon (see 3 Nephi 5:12–26), and Nephi (see 3 Nephi 7:15–26). You could also find ideas in a song like “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79).
Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7“
- What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? (see Doctrine and Covenants 41:5).
- Teach the children that a disciple of Jesus Christ tries to follow Him. Share a few things Mormon did to be like Jesus, such as teaching God’s word and obeying God’s commandments (see 3 Nephi 5:13–18). Help the children think of ways they can be disciples.
Friend August 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus Christ”
- On a piece of paper, help your children trace their hand and cut the tracing out. Write “I am a disciple of Jesus Christ” on one side, and invite them to draw something they can do to be a disciple on the other side.(you might need to help them think of ideas)
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7
- Maybe family members could talk about times when they noticed each other being disciples. If you have small children, you might make a badge that says, “I am a disciple of Jesus Christ,” and let them wear the badge whenever you notice them following the Savior.
Latter Day Kids “I Am a Disciple of Jesus Christ” Includes Lesson ideas
Additional Resources
- News with Naylors Lesson ideas
- Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas
- Latter Day Kids Video and lesson ideas about following Jesus
The Cozy Red Cottage Lesson ideas
Helaman 13-16
Posted onHelaman CHAPTER 13 Samuel the Lamanite prophesies the destruction of the Nephites unless they repent—They and their riches are cursed—They reject and stone the prophets, are encircled about by demons, and seek for happiness in doing iniquity. About 6 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 14 Samuel predicts light during the night and a new star at Christ’s birth—Christ redeems men from temporal and spiritual death—The signs of His death include three days of darkness, the rending of the rocks, and great upheavals of nature. About 6 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 15 The Lord chastened the Nephites because He loved them—Converted Lamanites are firm and steadfast in the faith—The Lord will be merciful unto the Lamanites in the latter days. About 6 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 16 The Nephites who believe Samuel are baptized by Nephi—Samuel cannot be slain with the arrows and stones of the unrepentant Nephites—Some harden their hearts, and others see angels—The unbelievers say it is not reasonable to believe in Christ and His coming in Jerusalem. About 6–1 B.C.
Samuel the Lamanite
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 40: Samuel the Lamanite Tells about Jesus Christ” Images and Video
Book of Mormon Stories for Young Readers “Samuel Teaches about Jesus”
Helaman 13
God can speak to me in my heart.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 13-16”
- How can you teach your children that God can speak to our heart, as He did for Samuel? Perhaps you could ask them to show you different ways to communicate without words (such as gestures or facial expressions). This could lead to a discussion about different ways that Heavenly Father communicates with us. As part of this discussion, you and your children could look at a picture of Samuel the Lamanite (this outline has two) and read Helaman 13:2–5 as your children listen for how God told Samuel what to say.
Friend March 2020 “How Does Heavenly Father Speak to Us?”
When Samuel the Lamanite was commanded to preach to the Nephites, Heavenly Father helped him know in his heart what he should say.
A Lamanite prophet named Samuel went to teach the Nephites in Zarahemla. He taught about repentance. The Nephites would not listen and threw him out of the city.
Samuel was about to go back to his people. But the Lord told him to return to teach the Nephites.
The Lord told Samuel He would tell him what to say. Samuel obeyed the Lord. He returned to Zarahemla. But the Nephites would not let him into the city.
Samuel climbed the city wall. He said the things the Lord put into his heart. He warned the people they would be destroyed because they were doing bad things. He said that only repentance and faith in Jesus Christ could save them. He said Jesus, the Son of God, would be born in five years.
- Many of us—especially children—need help learning to recognize how and when God is speaking to us. You might tell your children about a time when the Holy Ghost helped you know in your heart what God wanted you to do or say. Explain how you knew that God was communicating with you. Perhaps your children could also share any similar experiences they have had.
Friend January 2021 “The Bread Loaf Prayer” “How do you know when the Holy Ghost is talking to you?” Carver asked his parents. They decide to practice listening for the Holy Ghost. Carver’s mom bakes some bread and each person prays to know who to take it to. Carver thought of Sister Smith and he even listened and said the words to her that popped into his mind when he gave her the bread. He knew it was from the Holy Ghost.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
- Teach the children that while we speak to each other using words, the Holy Ghost can communicate through feelings in our hearts. Invite them to hold their hands over their hearts each time you read the word “heart” in Helaman 13:2–5. Help them decorate heart-shaped pieces of paper that say, “The Spirit speaks to me in my heart.”
Friend November 2023 “More than a Good Practice Day” Ismael saw a woman weeding the whole time he and his dad were playing soccer. He felt strongly that he should go over and tell her she was doing a good job. She seemed unhappy and tired until Ismael told her thank you for taking care of the park, and then she got a big smile and thanked him.
- Show a picture of the living prophet speaking in general conference. Tell the children that God tells the prophet what to say to us, just as He told Samuel what to say to the Nephites. Talk together about things the prophet has said that have been inspiring to you or the children.
Iniquity does not lead to Happiness
The idea that happiness can be found “in doing iniquity” is common in our day. In what ways has living the gospel brought us true happiness?
Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024)
- Imagine some friends are trying to find a high mountain lake they have heard about but never visited. As they travel through the wilderness, they meet a man who says he has lived in the area for years. He warns them that the path they are on does not lead to the lake and is dangerous in places. He counsels them to turn around and retrace their steps to a different path that will lead them safely there.
- Like the man in the story, at times, prophets may warn us of choices that will not lead to happiness, progression, and a return to Heavenly Father. They may urge us to repent and change our lives.
One truth we learn from these passages is that the Lord mercifully warns people of the consequences of sin and forgives those who repent.
Helaman 14
Prophets teach about Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 13-16”
- Singing together “Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 36) may be a good way to teach your children what Samuel taught about Jesus Christ. Sharing “Chapter 40: Samuel the Lamanite Tells about Jesus Christ” (Book of Mormon Stories, 111–13) is another. What did Samuel teach about the Savior? Perhaps you could also share what modern prophets teach about Him. How do their words build our faith in Him?
Samuel said there would be signs of Jesus’s birth. He told the people to look for the signs. One sign would be a night with no darkness. Other signs would be that a new star and many wonderful things would appear in the sky.
Samuel wanted people to have faith in Jesus. He said Jesus would die and be resurrected so that all people can be saved if they repent.
Samuel said there would be signs of Jesus’s death. People would not be able to see the sun, moon, or stars. There would be no light for three days.
There would be thunder and lightning. Earthquakes would come, and cities would be destroyed.
The purpose of Samuel’s message was to testify of Jesus Christ and invite the people to repent and come unto Him. Our prophets today have the same role.
Lesson 31 “Samuel the Lamanite”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
- Junior: Hide pictures around the room that represent the signs that Samuel prophesied of in Helaman 14:2–7 and 20–25. Read a phrase that describes one of the signs, and ask the children to find the picture of that sign. Explain that these signs helped the Nephites know about Jesus Christ. Testify that, like Samuel, all prophets testify of Jesus Christ.
- Senior: Invite half of the children to read Helaman 14:2–6 and draw pictures of the signs of Jesus’s birth. Invite the other half of the class to read Helaman 14:20–28 and draw pictures of the signs of Jesus’s death. Then ask each group to share what they drew. Read together Helaman 14:11–12, and ask the children to listen for why Samuel prophesied about these signs. How do we learn about Jesus Christ today?
The purpose of Samuel’s message was to testify of Jesus Christ and invite the people to repent and come unto Him. Our prophets today have the same role.
The prophet points us to Jesus Christ.
- Explain that just as Samuel the Lamanite taught about Jesus Christ, living prophets do the same today. Share a statement from a recent conference message in which the living prophet testified of Christ. Ask the children to share what the prophet has taught them about Jesus Christ.
Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 31: Samuel the Lamanite”
- Explain that not only did Samuel the prophet prophesy of Jesus Christ, so have all other prophets. Refer to Mosiah 13:33: “Did not Moses prophesy unto them concerning the coming of the Messiah, and that God should redeem his people? Yea, and even all the prophets who have prophesied ever since the world began—have they not spoken more or less concerning these things?”
Lesson 31 “Samuel the Lamanite”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
- Display a picture of the Savior, and ask a child to represent the prophet and lead the other children around the room while they sing a few verses of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11) or another song about prophets. Then ask the child representing the prophet to lead the children to the picture of the Savior. Testify that if we follow the prophet, he will lead us to Jesus Christ. Share some things our prophet has taught about Jesus recently. How can we follow his counsel?
Friend December 2020 “I Can Play It: Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus” Printed song and Sing-Along Video
Helaman 16
I am blessed as I follow the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 13-16”
- You can build your children’s trust in the prophet by showing them examples of people who were faithful. Some of these are found in Helaman 16:1, 5. As you read, your children could stand up when they hear something the people did when they believed Samuel’s words. Then, as you read verses 2 and 6, your children could sit down when they hear something the people did when they did not believe. How can we show that we believe the words of the living prophet? Tell the children how you are blessed as you follow the Lord’s counsel through His prophets.
The Red Crystal For younger children you can put these two prophet pictures on opposite sides of the room, and read the scriptures Helaman 16:1-5 having the children stand under the prophet that is happy when they made good choices and sad when they made sad choices.
- “Families Are Blessed When They Follow the Prophet” (May 2014 Friend)
Tomás helps his family follow the prophet by holding family home evening.
Ensign September 2020 “Family Study Fun: Go Forth”
Read Helaman 16:1–3 together. Those who believed Samuel “went forth” to do what he taught. Talk about how we should follow our Church leaders today.
- Invite each family member to find a quote from general conference. (Perhaps browse “Inspirational Picture Quotes” at ChurchofJesusChrist.org/media-library/images.)
- Take turns standing on a chair or stool, like Samuel on the wall, and reading these quotes to the group.
- After each quote, talk about what your family can do to “go forth” and do what was taught.
Discussion: What could we do to get ready for general conference next month? What would help us listen to and act on the teachings of our Church leaders?
Friend June 2022 “I Will Follow the Prophet”
Additional Resources
Sing together the seventh verse of “Book of Mormon Stories” (Children’s Songbook, 118–19). Share something you admire about Samuel, and let the children share what they like about his story.
Friend December 2020 “Samuel and the Star”
Friend September 2020 “Family Night Fun”
New Era October 2020 “Standing Firm with Samuel”
Friend September 2024 “Samuel on the Wall”Samuel was a prophet who taught about Jesus Christ on top of a city wall (see Helaman 13:4). Make the craft to help you tell Samuel’s story. Cut out the pieces. Then carefully cut the dotted lines on the wall to make two slits. Slide the long strip through the slits. Now you can make Samuel climb up and down the wall as you tell the story!
For younger children: Hold your little ones while they stand on a chair and share what they know about Jesus Christ, like Samuel did.
Friend September 2024 “The Signs of Christ’s Coming”
Book of Mormon Scripture Figures: “Samuel the Lamanite” (August 2012 Liahona and Friend)
Scripture Figures: “Samuel the Lamanite” (September 1992 Friend)
Gospel Art Picture: “Book of Mormon: Samuel the Lamanite on the Wall”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
- Help the children build a small wall with blocks or books. Using a small toy or doll to represent Samuel, let the children take turns helping “Samuel” climb the wall to teach the people about Jesus Christ.
Friend September 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”
- Read Helaman 14:11–12 together. Show your little ones a picture of Samuel standing on the wall and teaching people about Jesus. (You could use page FJ4 or the cover.) Then help them take turns standing on a chair or couch—like Samuel on the wall—and saying simple sentences about Jesus, like, “Jesus was born in Bethlehem,” “Jesus is the Son of God,” and “Jesus loves me.”
News with Naylors (See more ideas at link)
- The Amazing Arrow Trick from The Kids Should See This. I like that this object lesson has to do with arrows! Talk about prophets and the importance of following a prophet. When we obey, we see things clearly (show the clear glass with arrows facing the same direction) and we are protected. When we don’t obey the prophet (add water into the glass, so it only covers the bottom arrow), we don’t see things as clearly.
Latter Day Kids “Prophets” Lesson ideas
Helaman 7-12
Posted onTable of Contents
Helaman CHAPTER 7 Nephi is rejected in the north and returns to Zarahemla—He prays upon his garden tower and then calls upon the people to repent or perish. About 23–21 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 8 Corrupt judges seek to incite the people against Nephi—Abraham, Moses, Zenos, Zenock, Ezias, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lehi, and Nephi all testified of Christ—By inspiration Nephi announces the murder of the chief judge. About 23–21 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 9 Messengers find the chief judge dead at the judgment seat—They are imprisoned and later released—By inspiration Nephi identifies Seantum as the murderer—Nephi is accepted by some as a prophet. About 23–21 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 10 The Lord gives Nephi the sealing power—He is empowered to bind and loose on earth and in heaven—He commands the people to repent or perish—The Spirit carries him from multitude to multitude. About 21–20 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 11 Nephi persuades the Lord to replace their war with a famine—Many people perish—They repent, and Nephi importunes the Lord for rain—Nephi and Lehi receive many revelations—The Gadianton robbers entrench themselves in the land. About 20–6 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 12 Men are unstable and foolish and quick to do evil—The Lord chastens His people—The nothingness of men is compared with the power of God—In the day of judgment, men will gain everlasting life or everlasting damnation. About 6 B.C.
Helaman 7-9
Nephi Prophecies
Book of Mormon Stories “The Murder of the Chief Judge” Images and Video
The Lord wants me to remember Him.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 7-12”
- To start a conversation about remembering the Lord, you could tell your children about a time when you forgot something. Let them share similar experiences of their own. Then you could read together Helaman 7:20–21 and ask your children what they think it means to forget God. (Explain that the word forget can also mean “to neglect” or “ignore.”) Maybe your children could draw pictures of things that could cause us to forget the Lord and use their drawings to cover a picture of Jesus. Ask the children to think of things they can do each day to remember Heavenly Father and Jesus. As they share their thoughts, they could take away the drawings one by one until the picture of the Savior is revealed.
- Help the children complete this week’s activity page.
Friend August 2020 “Family Night Fun”
- Sometimes the Nephites forgot to “remember the Lord” and obey His commandments (see Helaman 12:5). How does remembering Jesus help you do what’s right?
- Read Helaman 8:19–25 together and talk about how Nephi wanted people to remember what the prophets taught.
- Set out items that represent the gospel (scriptures, pass-along card, Church magazine, CTR ring, etc.).
- Look at the items for one minute. Then invite someone to leave.
- Remove one item, then invite the person to return and try to remember what is missing.
- Play again until everyone has a turn.
- Discussion: What can we do to remember important gospel lessons that bless our lives?
- Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun”
Prophets testify of Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 7-12”
- Help your children search Helaman 8:13–23 to find names of prophets who taught about Jesus Christ. Maybe they can pass around a picture of Jesus each time they find one. What has our living prophet taught about the Savior?
- You could also sing together a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Maybe you and your children could pick a key phrase from the song and write one word from the phrase on each of several paper footprints. Then you could lay the footprints on the floor leading to a picture of the Savior, and your children could follow the footprints toward the picture. How has following the prophet led us to Jesus Christ?
Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Many people in the scriptures taught and testified of Jesus Christ (see Helaman 8:16–20). You can start building your testimony of Him too! A testimony is something you believe or know is true about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Write down your testimony and practice sharing it with your family or friends.
For younger children: Ask your little ones what they love about Jesus Christ. Then share your testimony of the Savior with them.
Helaman 10-12
Nephi Receives Great Power
I will be spiritually safe as I follow the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
- Invite the children to make a list on the board of things a prophet does (see “Prophet,” Guide to the Scriptures, scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help them search Helaman 7:1–2, 27–29; 8:22–23; and 10:3–4, 6–7 to see how Nephi did some of the things in their list. When have we seen our prophet today do these things? Bear your testimony of the living prophet. To illustrate the importance of prophets, show the first minute of the video “Watchman on the Tower” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
- Read together Helaman 11:3–7 (or review “Chapter 39: Nephi Receives Great Power,” Book of Mormon Stories,108–10, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children to listen for what happened to the people who did not listen to the prophet. What can happen when we do not listen to the prophet? How are we blessed when we follow Him? Share something that our prophet has taught, and encourage the children to follow his teachings.
Book of Mormon Stories: Nephi Receives Great Power Images and Video
Friend October 2017 “A Friendly Primary Visitor” A pilot comes to Primary and acts out flying and what could happen if he didn’t listen to the control tower. He likens the control tower to the prophet.
Friend September 2015 – ” How Can I Stay Safe….in Life” – Air traffic controller guides plane through fog. Prophets guide us.
Friend August 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Helaman 11:18 together and help your little ones say, “I will listen to the prophets and apostles.” Watch a short video of testimonies of the prophet and apostles at http://bit.ly/333rMkn. Teach your children the name of each person who speaks. When you see the prophet, help your children cup their hands around their ears to listen extra closely to what he has to say.
Pondering the words of God invites revelation.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 7-12”
Nephi was blessed with revelation when he pondered the things the Lord had shown him.
- To help your children understand what it means to ponder, you could read together “Ponder” in Guide to the Scriptures (Gospel Library). What are some other words that are similar to ponder? Perhaps you could read Helaman 10:1–3 together and replace the word ponder with those other words. Talk with your children about ways to make pondering part of their scripture study.
Ponder means to meditate and think deeply and often upon the scriptures or other things of God. When combined with prayer, pondering the things of God may bring revelation and understanding. (Guide to the Scriptures)
What does it mean to ponder? (To think about and consider) The scriptures tell us that many prophets received revelation from the Lord as they were pondering upon the things of God. We also open ourselves up to revelation as we ponder upon our problems during scripture study, during church meetings, and during our prayers.
- What happened when Nephi pondered the scriptures? (see Helaman 10:3–7). Share a time when you received revelation after pondering a scripture or a modern-day revelation or a spiritual experience. Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
I will obey Heavenly Father.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 7-12”
- Nephi obeyed Heavenly Father even when it meant doing something difficult. For an example of this, you and your children could read Helaman 10:2, 11–12. Maybe your children could act out what Nephi did—walk toward one side of the room (as if they are going home), stop, turn around, and walk toward the other side of the room (as if they are returning to teach the people). What are some things Heavenly Father wants us to do?
Friend June 2006 “Keep the Commandments”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
- Help the children understand that sometimes Heavenly Father wants us to do something that is different from what we want to do, but we can obey Him like Nephi did. Share statements like “Sometimes I want to get angry, but Heavenly Father wants me to be … ,” and let the children finish the statements. Encourage the children to remember to stop and think about what Heavenly Father wants them to do and then do it.
Priesthood
Helaman 10-11 Nephi receives the sealing power and the protection of the priesthood to do Heavenly Father’s work.
Lesson 30: Nephi Receives Great Power
Primary 4: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 30: Nephi Receives Great Power” Begin your class with the lights turned off. Ask the children if they have noticed something unusual. Ask someone to turn on the lights. Talk about the power of electricity that gives light. Discuss what things in the children’s homes run on electricity (stove, refrigerator, fans, tools, and so on). Explain that this lesson is about a different kind of power, a power stronger than electricity: the power of the priesthood of God. (See more lesson ideas at link.)
- Tell the children you are thinking of a word. Ask them to listen to the following descriptions and raise their hand when they know the word.
- It is the power of God.
- Through this power the Lord blesses his children and his church.
- Those who hold this power represent the Lord Jesus Christ.
- Those who hold this power are appointed to do the things the Savior wants done.
- What is the name of this power? (The priesthood.)
Remaining Spiritually Steady
Book of Mormon 2020 for Individuals and Family
Can you think of an object lesson you can use to help your family understand what “unsteadiness” means? For instance, you might invite a family member to try balancing something on his or her head. You could then invite family members to look in Helaman 12:1–6 for reasons people can be unsteady in following the Lord. How can we remain spiritually steady?
Additional Resources
- Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 29: Nephi Prophesies”
- Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 30: Nephi Receives Great Power” Priesthood lesson ideas
- Come Follow Me Kids
- News with Naylors
Helaman 1-6
Posted onTable of Contents
Helaman CHAPTER 1 Pahoran the second becomes chief judge and is murdered by Kishkumen—Pacumeni fills the judgment seat—Coriantumr leads the Lamanite armies, takes Zarahemla, and slays Pacumeni—Moronihah defeats the Lamanites and retakes Zarahemla, and Coriantumr is slain. About 52–50 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 2 Helaman, the son of Helaman, becomes chief judge—Gadianton leads the band of Kishkumen—Helaman’s servant slays Kishkumen, and the Gadianton band flees into the wilderness. About 50–49 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 3 Many Nephites migrate to the land northward—They build houses of cement and keep many records—Tens of thousands are converted and baptized—The word of God leads men to salvation—Nephi the son of Helaman fills the judgment seat. About 49–39 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 4 Nephite dissenters and the Lamanites join forces and take the land of Zarahemla—The Nephites’ defeats come because of their wickedness—The Church dwindles, and the people become weak like the Lamanites. About 38–30 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 5 Nephi and Lehi devote themselves to preaching—Their names invite them to pattern their lives after their forebears—Christ redeems those who repent—Nephi and Lehi make many converts and are imprisoned, and fire encircles them—A cloud of darkness overshadows three hundred people—The earth shakes, and a voice commands men to repent—Nephi and Lehi converse with angels, and the multitude is encircled by fire. About 30 B.C.
Helaman CHAPTER 6 The righteous Lamanites preach to the wicked Nephites—Both peoples prosper during an era of peace and plenty—Lucifer, the author of sin, stirs up the hearts of the wicked and the Gadianton robbers in murder and wickedness—The robbers take over the Nephite government. About 29–23 B.C.
Helaman 3-4
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6”
- As the prophet Mormon abridged the sacred records, he occasionally used the phrase “thus we see” to emphasize important truths. What did he want us to see in Helaman 3:27–30? Throughout your study this week, you might pause occasionally to ask family members how they would complete the phrase “and thus we see” regarding what they have read. What truths do they want to emphasize?
Nephite Cycle of Pride
Heavenly Father wants me to be humble.
- As you read Helaman 1–6—and throughout the Book of Mormon—you may notice a pattern in the behavior of the Nephites: When the Nephites are righteous, God blesses them and they prosper. After a time, they become prideful and wicked, making choices that lead to destruction and suffering. Then they are humbled and inspired to repent, and God blesses them once again. The pattern repeats itself so often that some people call it the “pride cycle.”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6: The Rock of Our Redeemer”
- Write the words Humble and Prideful on the board. Write a few examples of humble or prideful actions on slips of paper, and invite the children to take turns selecting a paper and putting it next to the word on the board that describes that action. What are some of the ways we can choose to be humble?
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 1-6”
- Consider inviting your children to draw their own version of the “pride cycle,” based on the diagram above (on a paper or on the board). Then, as you read together Helaman 3:24, 33–34 and 4:11–15, they could point to the parts of the cycle these verses describe. How can we choose to be humble—and remain that way?
Book of Mormon Coloring Book “The Pride Cycle”
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 41: The Jaredites Reject the Prophets,”
- In Helaman 3, Mormon described a time when the Church was so prosperous and blessed that even the leaders were surprised (see verses 24–32). Eventually some people became prideful, while others grew “stronger and stronger in their humility, … even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts” (Helaman 3:35). Notice what the more humble people did to become sanctified. The Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) defines sanctification as “the process of becoming free from sin, pure, clean, and holy through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.”
Helaman 5
Nephi and Lehi Surrounded by Flames in Prison
I can build my foundation on Jesus Christ.
Primary 4: Book of Mormon“Lesson 28: Nephi and Lehi in Prison,” Explain that before a building is built, the workers make a strong foundation for the building to rest on for support. Have the children compare the stability of a rock and sand as foundations to build on. Put a medium-sized rock and a box lid or shallow pan with sand or salt in it on the table. Blow on the rock and then blow on the sand or salt.
Ask the children if they were building a home why they would choose rock rather than sand for a foundation. Explain that the scriptures compare Jesus Christ to the rock as being a strong foundation on which to build our lives. We build our lives on the rock foundation of Christ when we choose to live his teachings.
Friend August 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Testify that Jesus is strong, like the stones. He can help us be strong too.
Friend August 2020 “Bright Idea” When I build my foundation on Jesus Christ, I can stand strong! (See Helaman 5:12.)
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 1-6”
- Invite your children to build a tower using blocks or other materials on different kinds of foundations (such as cotton balls or a flat stone). How is the solid foundation like Jesus Christ? They could add a block to the structure for each idea they share about what they can do to follow Him.
Friend August 2020 “A Strong Foundation” Helaman taught that we need to build our foundation on Jesus Christ (see Helaman 5:12). That means doing things that will bring us closer to Him. When we do, we will be able to withstand hard things in life.
- Choose a rock and read the scripture on it. How does doing that thing make you strong and bring you closer to Christ?
- Put the rock under the temple to build a strong foundation. Keep playing until all the rocks are in place.
- To help your family visualize what it means to have “a sure foundation,” perhaps you could build a small structure together and place it on different kinds of foundations. You could then create a “mighty storm” by spraying water on it and using a fan or hair dryer to create wind. What happened to the structure when it was on the different foundations? How is Jesus Christ like “a sure foundation” in our lives?
Friend September 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Helaman taught his sons to build their lives on the strong foundation of Jesus Christ (see Helaman 5:12). A foundation is what something is built on. A strong foundation makes the whole building strong, even through storms. Build two towers—one on a strong foundation and one on a weak foundation. Which tower is more stable? How can we build our lives on Jesus Christ?
For younger children: Help your little ones find some thing they think is really strong. What did they find? Teach that we can be strong with Jesus Christ
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6: The Rock of Our Redeemer”
- Read the first few lines of Helaman 5:12, and ask the children to raise their hands when they hear who the “rock” is that should be our foundation.
- Invite the children to do actions as you read Helaman 5:12. For example, they could wave their arms when you read about the devil’s “mighty storm” and stand in one place when you read about the “rock of our Redeemer.”
- Invite children to color the activity page, and help them cut it out. What can we do to build our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ? Share some of the ways you have built your life on the Savior and how doing so has blessed your life.
Sing “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man” (Children’s Songbook, 281) See here for teaching ideas, sing-along videos, and visual aid ideas.
Remembering Righteous Examples
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6”
- President George Albert Smith’s deceased grandfather George A. Smith appeared to him in a dream and asked, “I would like to know what you have done with my name.” President Smith responded, “I have never done anything with your name of which you need be ashamed” (in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith [2011], xxvi). After reading Helaman 5:6–7, perhaps you could talk to your family members about remembering and honoring the names we carry, including the name of the Savior.
Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun”
Read Helaman 5:6–7 together and talk about how Nephi and Lehi were named after righteous ancestors.
Invite the children to scan Helaman 5:5–14 and count how many times the word “remember” is mentioned. What did Helaman teach his sons that they should remember? How can remembering these things help us make Jesus Christ the foundation of our lives?
- Invite a family member to say the first letter of their first name.
- Each person in the family then tries to name a righteous person in the scriptures, or an ancestor, whose name also starts with that letter.
- Play again until everyone has had a chance to use their first initial.
Discussion: How can remembering examples from the scriptures and our righteous ancestors help us make good choices?
Invite the children to scan Helaman 5:5–14 and count how many times the word “remember” is mentioned. What did Helaman teach his sons that they should remember? How can remembering these things help us make Jesus Christ the foundation of our lives?
Ensign August 2020 “Do You Remember to Remember?”
The Holy Ghost whispers with a still, small voice.
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 37: Nephi and Lehi in Prison” Images and Video.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 1-6”
- The voice described in Helaman 5:29–30, 45–47 teaches us one way that the Holy Ghost speaks to us. To help your children understand this truth, consider reading “Chapter 37: Nephi and Lehi in Prison” (Book of Mormon Stories, 99–102). When you talk about the voice the people heard, speak in a soft voice. Repeat the story a few times, and invite the children to whisper with you.
Friend January 2024 “Listen to the Holy Ghost”
- To reinforce this principle, you could sing together “The Still Small Voice” (Children’s Songbook, 106–7). (Point out words in the scripture verse and the song that describe how the Holy Ghost speaks to us (see also Helaman 5:45–47). Help them think of other ways that the Holy Ghost can speak to us.)
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6: The Rock of Our Redeemer”
- Tell the children about times when the Holy Spirit has whispered to you and strengthened your testimony. Use Helaman 5:29 and your own experiences to share with the children a few examples of good things the Holy Ghost can inspire us to do.
Repentance replaces spiritual darkness with light.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 1-6: The Rock of Our Redeemer”
- The Lamanites who went to the prison to kill Nephi and Lehi were surrounded by literal darkness. When we sin, we are in spiritual darkness. Helaman 5:20–52 teaches us how our spiritual “cloud of darkness” can be lifted (verse 41).
Lesson 28 – Nephi and Lehi in Prison Lesson
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 1-6”
- To emphasize what Helaman 5:20–41 teaches about darkness and light, try reading or summarizing these verses in the dark, using just a flashlight for light. Your children could listen for what the people needed to do so the darkness would be removed. Then turn the lights on, and read verses 42–48 together. What do these verses teach us about repentance? What do these verses teach us about the blessings that repentance brings to our lives?
- .
- Invite the children to imagine that they are teaching a younger child about the Holy Ghost. How could they use Helaman 5:29–33, 44–47 to teach what the voice of the Spirit feels like and some of the things the Spirit tells us? How has the Holy Ghost inspired you to repent? Invite the children to share experiences when they have felt the peace and comfort of the Holy Ghost.
Additional Resources
- Come Follow Me Kid Lesson Ideas
- News with Naylors Lesson ideas
- Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 28: Nephi and Lehi in Prison”
Latter Day Kids “Build Upon the Rock”
The Cozy Red Cottage “Helaman 1-6”
Alma 53-63
Posted onTable of Contents
Alma CHAPTER 53 The Lamanite prisoners are used to fortify the city Bountiful—Dissensions among the Nephites give rise to Lamanite victories—Helaman takes command of the two thousand stripling sons of the people of Ammon. About 64–63 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 54 Ammoron and Moroni negotiate for the exchange of prisoners—Moroni demands that the Lamanites withdraw and cease their murderous attacks—Ammoron demands that the Nephites lay down their arms and become subject to the Lamanites. About 63 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 55 Moroni refuses to exchange prisoners—The Lamanite guards are enticed to become drunk, and the Nephite prisoners are freed—The city of Gid is taken without bloodshed. About 63–62 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 56 Helaman sends an epistle to Moroni, recounting the state of the war with the Lamanites—Antipus and Helaman gain a great victory over the Lamanites—Helaman’s two thousand stripling sons fight with miraculous power, and none of them are slain. Verse 1, about 62 B.C.; verses 2–19, about 66 B.C.; and verses 20–57, about 65–64 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 57 Helaman recounts the taking of Antiparah and the surrender and later the defense of Cumeni—His Ammonite striplings fight valiantly; all are wounded, but none are slain—Gid reports the slaying and the escape of the Lamanite prisoners. About 63 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 58 Helaman, Gid, and Teomner take the city of Manti by a stratagem—The Lamanites withdraw—The sons of the people of Ammon are preserved as they stand fast in defense of their liberty and faith. About 63–62 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 59 Moroni asks Pahoran to strengthen the forces of Helaman—The Lamanites take the city of Nephihah—Moroni is angry with the government. About 62 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 60 Moroni complains to Pahoran of the government’s neglect of the armies—The Lord suffers the righteous to be slain—The Nephites must use all of their power and means to deliver themselves from their enemies—Moroni threatens to fight against the government unless help is supplied to his armies. About 62 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 61 Pahoran tells Moroni of the insurrection and rebellion against the government—The king-men take Zarahemla and are in league with the Lamanites—Pahoran asks for military aid against the rebels. About 62 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 62 Moroni marches to the aid of Pahoran in the land of Gideon—The king-men who refuse to defend their country are put to death—Pahoran and Moroni retake Nephihah—Many Lamanites join the people of Ammon—Teancum slays Ammoron and is in turn slain—The Lamanites are driven from the land, and peace is established—Helaman returns to the ministry and builds up the Church. About 62–57 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 63 Shiblon and later Helaman take possession of the sacred records—Many Nephites travel to the land northward—Hagoth builds ships, which sail forth in the west sea—Moronihah defeats the Lamanites in battle. About 56–52 B.C.
Alma 53
Helaman and the 2000 Stripling Warriors
I can be faithful to God like Helaman’s young soldiers.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 53-63”
- You can use many resources to share the story of Helaman’s soldiers, including the pictures in this outline and “Chapter 34: Helaman and the 2,000 Young Warriors” (Book of Mormon Stories, 93–94).
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 34: Helaman and the 2,000 Young Warriors” Video and Images
Friend August 2024 “The Stripling Warriors”
Book of Mormon Stories for Young Readers “The Stripling Warriors” Video and Images (scroll down to read the captions.)
This week’s activity page can help your children think of ways they can be like the army of Helaman. Consider sharing some of the qualities of the young soldiers from Alma 53:20–21 to get them started.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63” Read Alma 53:20–21, and help the children understand what words like valiant, courage, strength, and true mean. Describe how the stripling warriors showed these qualities. Make simple name tags for the children that read, “When I am , I am like a stripling warrior!” Help the children fill in the blank with a quality they choose from Alma 53:20–21.
Teaching Children the Gospel “Lesson 27: Helaman and the Stripling Warriors” Activity: Divide the children into four groups and explain that each group is going to look up a scripture that tells about one of the righteous characteristics the young Ammonites developed in their youth. Give each group their characteristic card and their scripture and discussion ideas card. Tell them to read their discussion card and scripture and be prepared to tell what their characteristic is, tell about or describe their characteristic, and read the related parts of their scripture to the class. Have them tape their characteristic on the board. (Be prepared to add in any additional needed discussion to what the children present.)
Game: After a group presents their characteristic, do the following game: Have a child stand and tell how they can demonstrate that characteristic as they go about their day to day life. For example “I can courageously stand up for the right by sticking up for a child that is being picked on.” Have the next child stand and say the same thing plus add their own. Continue doing this until all the children have had a turn. (Start with a different child each time a new characteristic is presented.)
You could also sing together “We’ll Bring the World His Truth” (Children’s Songbook, 172–73).
I can be faithful to what my parents teach in righteousness.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63”
- Invite a girl and a boy to represent the mothers and fathers of the stripling warriors. As you read Alma 56:27 and 47–48, give these children items to hold that represent how the mothers and fathers helped the warriors, such as a sack of food to represent the “provisions” the fathers sent and scriptures to represent the mothers’ teachings. Ask the children to share things their parents provide for them or teach them.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 53-63”
- Helaman’s young soldiers looked to their mothers’ faith when they were faced with a great challenge. Perhaps you could read Alma 56:46–48 with your children and invite them to listen for what the mothers of these young men taught them about faith. You might ask them what they’ve learned from their parents—or other faithful adults—about the Savior.
Why is it important to obey “with exactness”? (Alma 57:21).
Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun” Read Alma 57:19–27 together and talk about how the stripling warriors were protected when they obeyed “with exactness” (verse 21).
- Blindfold one family member and have them stand against a wall.
- Place an object anywhere along the opposite wall and have the blindfolded person try to find the object in one minute without any help.
- After the time is up, have the person try again, except this time give them instructions to follow “with exactness.”
Discussion: How do God’s “instructions” help us stay safe and reach our goals?
How can you—like the mothers of the stripling soldiers—make sure your children know of your faith in God? One way is to share how your faith affects your life. For example, how has He “delivered” you when you “did not doubt”?
Coloring Page: “We Do Not Doubt” (March 2010 Liahona and Friend)
Friend August 2020 “Cover”
I can keep my covenants with Heavenly Father.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 53-63”
- Your children might be able to talk about a time when someone made and kept a promise with them. How did they feel when the promise was kept? You could read Alma 53:10–18 and invite your children to look for how Helaman, the people of Ammon, and the sons of the people of Ammon made and kept their promises, or covenants. You might share how Heavenly Father blesses you as you keep your covenants.
Gospel Media “The Anti-Nephi-Lehies Burying Their Swords”
Book of Mormon Seminary Teacher Manual (2024) “Alma 53”
Draw a path like the one in the above image to symbolize your life and the covenants we need to make to return to Heavenly Father. Draw pictures or write the covenants that each picture represents. Make a mark (or draw a figure representing yourself) showing where you currently are on the covenant path.
Take a moment to remember the covenants you have already made with Them and the ways you are striving to keep those covenants.
“Now, to each member of the Church I say, keep on the covenant path. Your commitment to follow the Savior by making covenants with Him and then keeping those covenants will open the door to every spiritual blessing and privilege available to men, women, and children everywhere. (Russell M. Nelson, “As We Go Forward Together,” Ensign, Apr. 2018, 7)
Alma 54-55
Moroni reclaims the Captured Prisoners
For the Strength of Youth August 2024 “Fun Stop” Rescue the Prisoner: Can you rescue the prisoner from the Lamanite stronghold? Without passing by any guards, find your way to the prisoner, and then leave by a different path than you came. (For a real-life story about rescuing prisoners, see Alma 55.) (See answer at link)
Alma 56-57
Helaman’s 2000 Young Warriors Trust God and are Preserved in Battle
Lesson 27: Helaman and the Stripling Warriors Lesson
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63”
- When compared with the Lamanite armies, Helaman’s “little army” (Alma 56:33) of 2,000 young Nephites shouldn’t have stood a chance. Besides being few in number, Helaman’s soldiers “were all … very young,” and “they never had fought” (Alma 56:46–47). In some ways, their situation might seem familiar to those of us who sometimes feel outnumbered and overwhelmed in our latter-day battle against Satan and the forces of evil in the world.
- But the army of Helaman had some advantages over the Lamanites that had nothing to do with numbers or military skill. They chose Helaman, a prophet, to lead them (Alma 53:19); “they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them” (Alma 56:47); and they had “exceeding faith in that which they had been taught.” As a result, they were protected by “the miraculous power of God” (Alma 57:26). Even though they were all wounded in battle, “there was not one soul of them who did perish” (Alma 57:25). So when life inflicts spiritual wounds on each of us, we can take courage—the message of Helaman’s army is that “there [is] a just God, and whosoever [does] not doubt, [will] be preserved by his marvelous power” (Alma 57:26).
Friend August 2020 “The Stripling Warriors Were Brave” Coloring page
Primary 4 Book of Mormon “Lesson 27: Helaman and the Two Thousand Warriors”
Let children volunteer to complete the following statements:
I can be like the young warriors by how I ______________.
I can be like the young warriors by remembering that my parents taught me to____________ .
I most admire_____________about the young warriors.
My favorite part of the account of the two thousand young warriors is______________
Alma 58
When I am worried, I can trust God.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63”
- Draw a frowning face on the board, and talk about how Helaman was worried because his army didn’t have enough food or enough men to keep fighting (see Alma 58:32–41). Ask the children to share times when they were worried. Read Alma 58:37 (or help a child read it), and help the children change the face on the board to a smiling face to show how Helaman felt because he trusted God. What can we do when we feel worried? Sing together “Smiles” (Children’s Songbook, 267).
- Write on some slips of paper a few things that children might worry about. Let the children take turns choosing a paper for you to read, and invite the children to share how God could help them with each of these worries. Share an experience in which God helped you when you were worried.
Alma 59-62
Moroni and Pahoran
I can choose to not be angry.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 53-63”
- Consider inviting your children to think about a time when they were accused of doing something they didn’t do. Tell them about how this happened to Pahoran (see Alma 60–61; see also “Chapter 35: Captain Moroni and Pahoran,” Book of Mormon Stories, 95–97). To learn about how Pahoran reacted, take turns reading verses from Alma 61:3–14. What did Pahoran do when Moroni accused him? (see Alma 61:2–3, 8–9). What do we learn about forgiveness from the Savior’s example? (see Luke 23:34).
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 35: Captain Moroni and Pahoran” Video and Images
- Both Helaman and Pahoran had good reasons to be offended. Helaman was not receiving sufficient support for his armies, and Pahoran was falsely accused by Moroni of withholding that support. Instead of getting angry, Pahoran said, “I … rejoice in the greatness of your heart” (Alma 61:9).
I can choose to think the best of others and not be offended.
For the Strength of Youth March 2023 “When You’re Judged Unfairly”
- “The Right Reply.” Emily wants to write a mean reply when her friend sends her a mean email, but then she thinks of what Jesus would do and responds kindly. (From the Friend.)
- “Bugs and Brothers.” In this Friend story, Lacey learns that she doesn’t have to be angry at her brother Zach for teasing her.
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said: “Endowed with agency, you and I are agents, and we primarily are to act and not just be acted upon. To believe that someone or something can make us feel offended, angry, hurt, or bitter diminishes our moral agency and transforms us into objects to be acted upon. As agents, however, you and I have the power to act and to choose how we will respond to an offensive or hurtful situation.”
Alma 62
Teancum
After the War
Hardened or Softened by Adversity
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63”Here’s an object lesson that can help your family understand that we can choose to be either “hardened” or “softened” by our trials: Place a raw potato and a raw egg in a pot of boiling water. The potato and the egg represent us, and the water represents the trials we face. As the potato and egg boil, you could talk about some of the trials your family faces. What are some different ways to react to trials like these? According to Alma 62:41, how do our reactions to trials affect us? After the potato and egg are fully cooked, cut open the potato and crack open the egg to show that the same “trial” softened the potato and hardened the egg. What can our family do to be sure that our trials humble us and bring us closer to God?
Additional Resources
Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Helaman and other leaders wrote epistles, or letters, to tell each other about the good and bad things happening in the battles (see Alma 56). You can write letters too! Write a letter to a family member or friend. Write down the good things happening in your life and the things that are hard for you. Then send your letter!
For younger children: Practice writing “I love you” or drawing a heart to give to someone you love. Talk about how prophets in the scriptures also wrote letters.
Friend August 2020 “Stripling Warrior Challenge” The stripling warriors kept their bodies and spirits strong. Set this page on the floor. Close your eyes and drop a pebble or button onto the page. Then do the challenge for the box it lands closest to.
- “Stripling-Warrior Search” (August 2019 Friend)
Find eight letters hidden in this picture of the stripling warriors, and unscramble them to decode a hidden message.
Friend August 2000 “Stripling Warriors Game” Story Review Game
Friend Scripture Figures: “Stripling Warriors”
Media Library “Stripling Warriors”
Book of Mormon Coloring Book “The Stripling Warriors”
Latter Day Kids “The Valiant Fox- Come Follow Me: August 10th-16th” Video, lesson and activity ideas. Helping children to understand what valiant means.
- Primary 4 Book of Mormon “Lesson 27: Helaman and the Two Thousand Warriors”
- Come Follow Me Kid
- The Cozy Red Cottage
- News with Naylors
Alma 43-52
Posted onTable of Contents
Alma CHAPTER 43 Alma and his sons preach the word—The Zoramites and other Nephite dissenters become Lamanites—The Lamanites come against the Nephites in war—Moroni arms the Nephites with defensive armor—The Lord reveals to Alma the strategy of the Lamanites—The Nephites defend their homes, liberties, families, and religion—The armies of Moroni and Lehi surround the Lamanites. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 44 Moroni commands the Lamanites to make a covenant of peace or be destroyed—Zerahemnah rejects the offer, and the battle resumes—Moroni’s armies defeat the Lamanites. About 74–73 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 45 Helaman believes the words of Alma—Alma prophesies the destruction of the Nephites—He blesses and curses the land—Alma may have been taken up by the Spirit, even as Moses—Dissension grows in the Church. About 73 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 46 Amalickiah conspires to be king—Moroni raises the title of liberty—He rallies the people to defend their religion—True believers are called Christians—A remnant of Joseph will be preserved—Amalickiah and the dissenters flee to the land of Nephi—Those who will not support the cause of freedom are put to death. About 73–72 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 47 Amalickiah uses treachery, murder, and intrigue to become king of the Lamanites—The Nephite dissenters are more wicked and ferocious than the Lamanites. About 72 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 48 Amalickiah incites the Lamanites against the Nephites—Moroni prepares his people to defend the cause of the Christians—He rejoices in liberty and freedom and is a mighty man of God. About 72 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 49 The invading Lamanites are unable to take the fortified cities of Ammonihah and Noah—Amalickiah curses God and swears to drink the blood of Moroni—Helaman and his brethren continue to strengthen the Church. About 72 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 50 Moroni fortifies the lands of the Nephites—They build many new cities—Wars and destructions befell the Nephites in the days of their wickedness and abominations—Morianton and his dissenters are defeated by Teancum—Nephihah dies, and his son Pahoran fills the judgment seat. About 72–67 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 51 The king-men seek to change the law and set up a king—Pahoran and the freemen are supported by the voice of the people—Moroni compels the king-men to defend their country or be put to death—Amalickiah and the Lamanites capture many fortified cities—Teancum repels the Lamanite invasion and slays Amalickiah in his tent. About 67–66 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 52 Ammoron succeeds Amalickiah as king of the Lamanites—Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi lead the Nephites in a victorious war against the Lamanites—The city of Mulek is retaken, and Jacob the Zoramite is slain. About 66–64 B.C.
Alma 43-44
Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 31: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah” Images and Video
Lesson 25: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah Lesson ideas
I can find spiritual protection in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Alma 43:17–21; 48:7–8; 49:1–5; 50:1–6
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 43-52”
To defend the Nephites against the Lamanites, Moroni prepared his people with armor and fortifications. His efforts teach us how we can find spiritual safety.
Tell the children a little about the war between the Nephites and the Lamanites (see Alma 43), emphasizing that the Nephites wore armor to protect themselves. You could use “Chapter 31: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah” (Book of Mormon Stories, 85–88, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Read Alma 43:19, and invite the children to point to parts of their bodies as they hear them in the scripture.
Explain that just as the Nephites were in a physical war, we are in a spiritual war against Satan, who doesn’t want us to keep God’s commandments. Draw a child on the board, and help the children think of things that protect us spiritually as armor protects our bodies (for example, prayer, scripture reading, or keeping the commandments). Each time something is mentioned, draw a piece of armor on the child on the board.
Lesson 25: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah
Help the children make a shield out of a large piece of paper or cardboard, and ask them to write on it things that protect us spiritually. Give each child a piece of paper, and invite the children to write something bad that Satan might tempt us to do (such as lie, steal, or be unkind). Ask them to crumple their papers into balls and throw them at the shield to illustrate how the gospel can keep us safe from Satan (see also Ephesians 6:16).
Friend August 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Alma 49:28 together and help your little ones say, “The gospel helps protect us.” Cut out or draw pictures to represent parts of the gospel—like scriptures, a temple, etc. Tape them to a plastic lid, piece of cardboard, or pillow. Then use it as a shield! One person could throw crumpled balls of paper while the other person blocks the attack.
Friend August 2020 “Happiness and Obedience” Captain Moroni gave the Nephites shields to help keep them safe. On each shield, write a gospel standard from the list below that can help you stay safe and strong.
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 25: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah”
Ask the children what types of things Satan uses today to try to wound or kill us spiritually. They may mention such things as certain movies, television programs, videos, books, or magazines; temptations to break the Word of Wisdom; temptations to not go to church; and so on. Discuss what the children are doing to strengthen their spiritual armor, such as having personal and family prayers, having personal and family scripture study, having family home evenings, attending church, and so on.
Could use the below map or the chalkboard to illustrate the strategy Captain Moroni used, as told in Alma 43:31–42. Explain that just as Captain Moroni used strategy to defeat the enemy, you can use similar approaches in spiritual battles. Strategizing and preplanning how you will face temptations will help you make more correct choices.
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 25: Captain Moroni Defeats Zerahemnah”
Alma 46
Title of Liberty
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 32: Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty” Video and Images
Book of Mormon Stories for Young Readers “Captain Moroni’s Flag” Video and Images
I can be “firm in the faith of Christ” like Captain Moroni.
Alma 46:11–16; 48:11–13, 16–17
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 43-52”
- Your children could look at the pictures in this outline to tell the story of the title of liberty (see Alma 46:11–16; “Chapter 32: Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty,” Book of Mormon Stories, 89–90). What did Moroni want the people to remember (see verse 12)? What does Heavenly Father want us to remember? Perhaps your children could design their own “titles of liberty” with phrases or pictures that will help them remember these things.
Book of Mormon Coloring Book “Moroni’s Title of Liberty” Coloring Page
Lesson 26 – Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty
- To teach your children about being “firm in the faith of Christ” like Moroni (see Alma 48:13), you could help them find and touch something firm. What does it mean for faith to be “firm”? Read together Alma 48:11–12 to find out what made Moroni firm in his faith in Christ. You could also sing together a song like “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162). What can we do to be “firm in the faith of Christ”?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 43-52”
Moroni was a faithful and strong disciple of Jesus Christ, who inspired the Nephites to live the gospel (see Alma 48:17).
Ask the children to tell you about some people they want to be like and why they want to be like them. Read Alma 48:11–13, 16 then share with them some words from Alma 48:11–13 that describe Moroni, and invite them to guess who these words are describing. Show a picture of Moroni, and talk about ways we can be like him. Have the children to think of specific things they can do to be more like Moroni.
Friend August 2020 “Family Night Fun”
- Captain Moroni made a flag out of his coat to remind his army that they were fighting for their families, their faith, and their freedom (see Alma 46:12). This flag was called the title of liberty.
- Make your own flag! On a piece of paper, draw pictures of what’s important to you and your family, such as who they are, what they enjoy, who they hope to be, and what they stand for. You might share some symbols that represent these things. Hang it up as a reminder.
Ensign August 2020 “What is Your Focus” Moroni’s focus was “inspired by a better cause” (Alma 43:45). Where do you place the focus in your life?
Latter Day Kids “Spiritual Battles” Video and lesson ideas.
Friend August 2024 “The Title of Liberty”
For the Strength of Youth August 2024
Friend July 1988 “Follow Righteous Leaders”
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 26: Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty”
Alma 47
Amalickiah Entices Lehonti to Meet with Him.
Satan tempts and deceives us little by little.
Book of Mormon Seminary Teacher Manual (2024) “Alma 47–48: Amalickiah and Lehonti”
Have you ever heard someone say, “Just once won’t hurt,” “It’s only a little bit,” or “It’s not that bad”? When we decide to yield to Satan’s temptations even a little, we give him power over us. In Alma 47, we learn about a man named Lehonti who yielded just a little to his enemy and found himself in very dangerous and even deadly circumstances.
Consider drawing the following diagram on the board to help students visualize the situation described in these verses.
After reading verse 11, you could ask, “Why might it have been unwise to come down to the foot of the mountain to meet with Amalickiah?” Then students could read verse 12 and look for what Amalickiah did differently the fourth time he tried to entice Lehonti to meet with him.
To illustrate Amalickiah’s different approach, you could add arrows to the diagram on the board to reflect Amalickiah going nearly to the top of the mountain, as well as his request that Lehonti come down just a little.
- Step 1: Draw a [child] standing on top of a mountain. At the bottom of the mountain, list temptations or tactics Satan uses to try to get us to “come down” a little so he can gain power over us. Be sure to leave space between the [child] and the temptations you list so you have room for step 2.
- Step 2: At the top of the mountain, list some of the resources or teachings the Lord has given us that can protect us against Satan’s temptations.
In what ways were Amalickiah’s tactics similar to the tactics Satan uses to destroy us? (If needed, see 2 Nephi 28:7–8,
Like Amalickiah, Satan may seek to persuade us to gradually lower our standards and place ourselves in circumstances that make us vulnerable to his attacks. Consider inviting students to mark the phrase “come down” wherever it appears in Alma 47:10–13. What is a truth you learn from this account about the danger of giving in to Satan’s temptations, even a little?
Satan knows that most of us aren’t willing to commit big sins or believe big lies. Therefore, he uses subtle lies and temptations to lead us into seemingly small sins—as many as he thinks we will accept. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 43-52”
“The traitorous Amalickiah urged Lehonti to ‘come down’ and meet him in the valley. But when Lehonti left the high ground, he was poisoned ‘by degrees’ until he died, and his army fell into Amalickiah’s hands (see Alma 47). By arguments and accusations, some people bait us to leave the high ground. The high ground is where the light is. … It is the safe ground” (“Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,”Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 74).
He wishes to destroy our lives and bring us into captivity through getting us to sin. Demonstrate how Satan takes away our freedom through sin by doing the following object lesson.
Object Lesson
Ask for a volunteer. Have the volunteer put their hands together. Wrap one layer of the masking tape around their fingers and thumbs. Ask them if they can break free. Explain that when we first make a mistake or sin we are easily able to break free of its grasp and repent. But Satan knows that if he continue to gets us to sin, little by little, eventually the sin will become accepted and then we become bound in captivity to the sin because it becomes a habit or an addiction. (Wrap the tape around the child’s hands several times, layering one area around the fingers and thumbs.) Ask the child to try and break free from the bindings. They shouldn’t be able to. Satan wants us to be miserable like he is, and he knows that sin binds us in captivity and destroys lives.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 43-52” Show a picture of a house that is well maintained and a house that has been neglected, or show a picture of a healthy garden and a garden full of weeds. Let the children talk about what they see in the pictures and how these changes might have happened over time. What could the owner of the house or garden have done to prevent this? Explain that people can gradually become sinful if they do not resist Satan’s temptations to commit small sins (such as being dishonest or looking at pornography) and then bigger sins. What are some bad things that we need to resist doing in our lives?
Alma 48, 49, 50
Moroni Fortifies the Lands of the Nephites
Spiritual Fortifications
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 43-52”
- These verses describe the fortifications the Nephites built: Alma 48:7–9; 49:1–9; 50:1–6. After reading these verses together, your children might enjoy building a fort out of objects like chairs and blankets. The video “Elder Stevenson on Fortifying Families” (Gospel Library) can help you discuss how to spiritually fortify your home.
Book of Mormon Seminary Teacher Manual (2024) “Alma 47–48: Amalickiah and Lehonti”
Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Fort of Safety” When Captain Moroni was preparing for war, he built things around the city to keep the people safe (see Alma 50:1–6). Build a fort with your family! Every time you add something new to your fort, name something you can do to keep your family safe spiritually, like reading the scriptures or praying.
For younger children: Build a fort to sit in. Talk about how people build forts to be safe. Then talk about how we can make our homes spiritually safe by reading the scriptures.
As your family reads about the Nephites’ fortifications, you could discuss how you are fortifying your home against the adversary. Children might enjoy building a fort out of objects like chairs and blankets, or they could draw what they imagine the Nephite fortifications looked like.
Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun”
Alma 50 describes how Captain Moroni protected his people against their enemies.
- Read Alma 50:1–6 and make a list of what the Nephites did to defend themselves: dig up heaps of earth, build a timber wall, and so on.
- Come up with an action to represent each defense. For example, pretend to shovel dirt for “digging up heaps of earth.”
- Now play a Book of Mormon version of Simon Says. One family member starts by saying “Captain Moroni says to …” and then picks one of the defenses. The rest of the group should quickly do the corresponding action. Then Captain Moroni gives a new command.
- If Captain Moroni gives a command without first saying “Captain Moroni says,” anyone who does the action is out.
Discussion: What spiritual dangers exist in the world? What can we do to protect ourselves and our homes from the adversary? For further insights, read and discuss Alma 43:19, 23–24.
Book of Mormon Coloring Book “Moroni’s Title of Liberty”
“Even when things went well, Captain Moroni continued to prepare his people. He never stopped. He never became complacent.
“The adversary never stops attacking. So, we can never stop preparing!” (Russell M. Nelson, “Embrace the Future with Faith,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 75)
Alma 50-52
King-Men Versus Freemen
Unity brings safety.
In the circumstances recorded at the beginning of Alma 50, it looked like the Lamanites had no chance against the Nephites. The armor, fortifications, and unified efforts of the Nephites made them seem unconquerable (see Alma 49:28–30and 50:17–20). But the Lamanites soon captured many of their cities—including those that Moroni had fortified (see Alma 51:26–27). How did that happen? Look for answers as you read these chapters (see particularly Alma 51:1–12). Ponder what warnings this account may have for you and your family. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 43-52”
Book of Mormon Stories “King-Men Verses Freemen” Images and Video
Teancum
Friend May 1988 “Scriptural Giants: Teancum, Fighter for Freedom”
Additional Resources
Alma 39-42
Posted onTable of Contents
Alma CHAPTER 39 Sexual sin is an abomination—Corianton’s sins kept the Zoramites from receiving the word—Christ’s redemption is retroactive in saving the faithful who preceded it. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 40 Christ brings to pass the resurrection of all men—The righteous dead go to paradise and the wicked to outer darkness to await the day of their resurrection—All things will be restored to their proper and perfect frame in the Resurrection. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 41 In the Resurrection men come forth to a state of endless happiness or endless misery—Wickedness never was happiness—Carnal men are without God in the world—Every person receives again in the Restoration the characteristics and attributes acquired in mortality. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 42 Mortality is a probationary time to enable man to repent and serve God—The Fall brought temporal and spiritual death upon all mankind—Redemption comes through repentance—God Himself atones for the sins of the world—Mercy is for those who repent—All others are subject to God’s justice—Mercy comes because of the Atonement—Only the truly penitent are saved. About 74 B.C.
Book of Mormon Stories “Alma Counsels His Sons” Video and Images
Lesson 24: Alma Counsels His Son Corianton
Alma Counsels His Son Corianton
Alma 39
My good example can lead others to Christ.
Alma encouraged Corianton to learn from the good example of his brothers and warned Corianton not to be a negative example for others.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 39-42”
- Alma’s counsel to Corianton can help your children understand the importance of being a good example. Consider reading together Alma 39:1. How was Corianton’s brother Shiblon a good example? Your children could find additional answers to this question in Alma 38:2–4.
- You could also play a game in which you and your children take turns following or imitating each other. Use this game to illustrate how our actions could help others make good choices.
Sing the song “Do as I’m Doing” (Children’s Songbook, 276). Let each child have a turn being the leader or example. Ask the children how they can be a good example to someone.
- Sing together “I Am like a Star” (Children’s Songbook, 163), and help your children think of ways they can be a good example.
Bring a flashlight or a picture of the sun, and compare light to the power of a righteous example. Just as the light from a flashlight or the sun can help us see a path we need to follow, a righteous example shows us what to do in order to follow Heavenly Father. Share an experience when someone’s good example helped you. Ask the children to talk about someone who is a good example for them. What can the children do to be a good example to others?
Show pictures of Jesus doing good things, and explain that He is our perfect example. Explain that we can be good examples, like Jesus was. Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves being good examples.
Friend December 2016 “A Shining Light”
- The videos “Shine Your Light So Others May See” and “Lessons I Learned as a Boy” can help your children discuss how their example can lead people to Christ.
Ask the children how the older boy was a good example.
Following righteous counsel and examples
Who were Corianton’s righteous examples? His father and older brothers. Alma told Corianton to counsel with his brothers. (Alma 39:10)
How can counseling with righteous family members help strengthen our resistance to temptation? They love us and want what is best for us, and being experienced in righteous living, they can help give advice on how to avoid temptation and difficulty.
Not only can we receive direction from righteous family members, but there may be other people around us who are also righteous examples.
From what other sources can you receive righteous counsel and examples?
Object Lesson: Fill two paper bags, one filled with garbage and the other filled with desirable items such as treats or little party favor toys. Show the children the two bags or boxes, and explain that one has something undesirable in it and the other has something desirable in it. Show one of the children what is in the bags. Tell the other children that they can ask the child yes or no questions about the items (with the exception of directly asking which is the good or bad container) until they can decide which is the good choice.
Ask the children if it helped to talk to someone who was informed about which was the bad choice and which was the good choice. Point out that it also helps to counsel with those who are experienced in righteous living in order to get help and direction in making good choices in life.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 39-42”
- Explain that Alma’s son Corianton committed a serious sin while he should have been preaching the gospel. Read the last half of Alma 39:11 with the children, and ask them to listen for how Corianton’s sin affected the Zoramites. Help the children think of people who may be influenced by their actions. How can they be good examples for these people?
More Example teaching ideas.
Because of Jesus Christ, I can repent when I make mistakes.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 39-42”
- Without going into detail about the nature of his sins, explain that Corianton made a wrong choice. What could we say to help him? Consider reading Alma 39:9 to your children, and help them understand what repent and forsake mean. Testify that repentance is possible through Jesus Christ and His Atonement.
Friend April 2006 “I Can Repent and Be Happy” Repentance is a way of removing and healing from a sin that hurts us spiritually. (See more at link) The first thing we need to do is to realize that we have done something wrong and to feel sorry that we did it. This feeling comes from the Holy Ghost. We must ask Heavenly Father and any people we have wronged to forgive us. We need to do the best we can to correct any problems caused because of our wrong choices. We must also decide not to do the wrong thing again. After we have done all that we can to repent, because of Christ’s Atonement, Heavenly Father will forgive us.
Game: You can play this game by yourself or with your family. Cut out the shape on page 15 on the heavy black lines. Fold it on the dotted lines to make a pyramid. Glue or tape the tabs so they are on the inside of the pyramid. Choose a case study from the list, toss the pyramid, and tell how to apply the part of repentance that is facing you to the situation described by the case study.
- Here’s an object lesson to illustrate the joy of repentance: Give a child something heavy to hold while you tell a story about someone who did something wrong and felt bad. Tell your children that the object is like the bad feelings we may have when we make a mistake. Take the heavy object from the child as you testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can take away the heavy, bad feelings and help us be better as we repent.
Friend December 2022 “Lighten Your Load”
Friend September 2017 “The Sparkly Sticker” Emily and her friends teases a boy in an unkind way, and then Emily feels terrible about it. Her mom remind her that she can repent and make thinks right.
Latter Day Kids “Repentance” Lesson ideas
Find more repentance stories here
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can help me correct my mistakes.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 39-42”
- Sing together a song about repentance, such as “Repentance”(Children’s Songbook, 98).
- Ask the children to share an experience when they got hurt. What did they do to help their injury heal? Explain that sin injures our spirits, but the Savior can heal us when we repent.
Friend July 2020 “My Family Night Fun” The prophet Alma had a son who made bad choices. Alma taught him to “repent and forsake [his] sins” (Alma 39:9). That means telling Heavenly Father you’re sorry, asking for forgiveness, and doing your best to not make the bad choice again.
Do the salt and pepper activity to teach your family about repentance. How is repentance like the spoon in the experiment?
Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun” Flip a Choice: Read Alma 42:4 together and talk about how this life is a time for us “to repent and serve God.”
- Sit in a circle and give each family member three index cards.
- On two of the cards, write good choices. On the third card, write a bad choice.
- Turn the cards face down and mix them up in the middle of the circle.
- Take turns flipping over one card at a time. When someone reads a good choice, give the person a high-five (or another gesture that means “Good job!” in your culture).
- When someone reads a bad choice, the person shares something they could do to repent and serve God instead.
Discussion: Testify that Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to change and become better people. How can we use our time this week to follow Him and serve God?
Come Follow Me Kid “The Great Plan of Happiness” Flip a Choice Cards
More Repentance teaching ideas.
Alma 40-41
After we die, our spirits go to the spirit world until the Resurrection and Judgment.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 39-42”
It’s natural to wonder what happens to us after we die. What can you do to help your children find inspired answers? You could write death, spirit world (paradise and spirit prison), resurrection, and judgment on separate pieces of paper. Help your children understand what these words mean. As you read together Alma 40:6–7, 11–14, 21–23, your children could place the words in the order in which they occur in these verses.
Learn more about the Spirit World here.
- Older Children: Write on the board a list of questions that can be answered by Alma 40:6–7, 11–14, and 21–23, and invite the children to match each question with the verses that answer it. For example, “What will my body be like when I am resurrected?” can be answered by Alma 40:23. If necessary, explain difficult words to the children while they read. Encourage the children to share why they are grateful for Heavenly Father’s plan.
Do your children know someone who has died? Maybe you could talk briefly about that person. Bear your testimony that someday they—and everyone else—will be resurrected because of Jesus Christ. If needed, use this week’s activity page to explain what it means to be resurrected.
Come Follow Me Kid “The Great Plan of Happiness”
While you read Alma 40:23 aloud, have the children use this week’s activity page to help them visualize what this verse is teaching. Invite each child to use the activity page to teach another child what resurrection is.
Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Resurrection Activity”
Alma taught about resurrection (see Alma 40:23). Make a puppet that looks like you! You can use a paper bag, piece of paper, or sock to make a puppet. Use markers, paint, yarn, or other things to decorate it. Your hand is like your spirit, and your puppet is like your body. Because of Jesus Christ, our body and spirit will be together again forever after we are resurrected.
For younger children: Do something to move your body, like dancing or playing! Then talk about how resurrection means we will have our bodies again after we die.
Latter Day Kids: Lesson Ideas
Friend July 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Alma 40:23 together and help your little ones say, “Because of Jesus, we will live again.” Look at pictures of family members who have died. Help your children learn their names and faces. Testify that they can meet their family members someday.
For the Strength of Youth “A Plan of Mercy: The Power of Understanding the Plan: Corianton’s Story” See link for more understanding of the reason Alma taught Corianton the Plan of Salvation.
Library Topics and Questions “Paradise” Spirit World Gospel Study Guide “Spirit World”
More Resurrection teaching ideas.
Alma 42
Using the the time granted on earth wisely
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 39-42” You could play a game in which pieces of paper with Christlike attributes or gospel principles written on them are scattered around the room. You could see how many pieces of paper family members can gather in a certain amount of time, then discuss how the things written on the papers can help us become more like God. How is the “time granted” to us on earth like the time allotted in this game? How can we use our “probationary time” on earth to become more like the Savior?
Ensign August 2020 “Family Study Fun” Flip a Choice: Read Alma 42:4 together and talk about how this life is a time for us “to repent and serve God.”
- Sit in a circle and give each family member three index cards.
- On two of the cards, write good choices. On the third card, write a bad choice.
- Turn the cards face down and mix them up in the middle of the circle.
- Take turns flipping over one card at a time. When someone reads a good choice, give the person a high-five (or another gesture that means “Good job!” in your culture).
- When someone reads a bad choice, the person shares something they could do to repent and serve God instead.
Discussion: Testify that Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to change and become better people. How can we use our time this week to follow Him and serve God?
Justice and Mercy
Perhaps you could illustrate the relationship between justice and mercy by using a drawing of a simple scale to discuss questions like these: What happens to the scale when we sin? What does justice require for the scale to be balanced? How does the Savior meet the demands of justice and make mercy possible?
Ensign August 2020 “How is God Both Just and Merciful”
Additional Resources
News with Naylors Lesson ideas
The Cozy Red Cottage Lesson ideas
The Red Crystal Lesson ideas
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 24: Alma Counsels His Son Corianton”
Alma 32-35
Posted onTable of Contents
Alma CHAPTER 32 Alma teaches the poor whose afflictions had humbled them—Faith is a hope in that which is not seen which is true—Alma testifies that angels minister to men, women, and children—Alma compares the word unto a seed—It must be planted and nourished—Then it grows into a tree from which the fruit of eternal life is picked. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 33 Zenos taught that men should pray and worship in all places, and that judgments are turned away because of the Son—Zenock taught that mercy is bestowed because of the Son—Moses had lifted up in the wilderness a type of the Son of God. About 74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 34 Amulek testifies that the word is in Christ unto salvation—Unless an atonement is made, all mankind must perish—The whole law of Moses points toward the sacrifice of the Son of God—The eternal plan of redemption is based on faith and repentance—Pray for temporal and spiritual blessings—This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God—Work out your salvation with fear before God. About 74 B.C.‘
Alma CHAPTER 35 The preaching of the word destroys the craft of the Zoramites—They expel the converts, who then join the people of Ammon in Jershon—Alma sorrows because of the wickedness of the people. About 74 B.C.
Alma 32
Alma Teaches the Poor Zoramites
If I am humble, the Lord can teach me.
Alma 32:1–13, 27–28 Alma 31:8–35
Ask the children what they remember learning last week about the Zoramites (see Alma 31:8–24). Remind them that one reason Alma was worried about them was their pride (see Alma 31:24–28).
Definition of Pride: A inflated, high opinion of one’s own importance, merit, or superiority.
In what ways might people think they are better than others and become lifted up in pride? Answers might include the following: people may think they are better than others because of how smart, pretty or handsome, athletic, wealthy, or talented they are. (Have the children build with blocks, or cut out the following image into pieces and post them on the board, or draw a part of the Rameumptom tower on the board as each answer is given.)
Ask the children how they would feel if they were being made fun of for not being as smart, good looking, athletic, talented, or rich as someone else.
Read together Alma 32:1–5, and ask the children to summarize what had happened to the Zoramites who were poor. Then invite the children to read verses 12–13 to find out why Alma felt that being cast out of their synagogues (or churches) was a good thing for these Zoramites. What are some of the blessings that come from being humble?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 32-35”)
What is humility? A modest opinion of one’s own importance, rank, etc. Guide to the Scriptures: The condition of being meek and teachable. Humility includes recognizing our dependence upon God and desiring to submit to His will.
What are some of the blessings that come from being humble? Teachable, turn heart to the Lord, etc.
Display a hard, solid object (like a stone) to represent a hard or prideful heart and something soft (like soil) to represent a soft or humble heart. Let the children feel both objects. Then show the children a seed to represent the word of God. Invite them to try to push the seed into the hard object and the soft object. Read together Alma 32:27–28, and talk about what it might mean to “give place” (verse 27) for the word of God in our hearts. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 32-35”)
How can we humble ourselves so we are not lifted up in pride? (Have the children take off or erase a level of the Rameumpton tower for every answer they give.) Answers may include the following: by remembering that our gifts, talents, and abilities come from the Lord, by praying for humility, by looking for the good in others, by building love for others by praying for them and serving them.
The Lord can teach me as I choose to be humble.
(Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 32-35) Alma and Amulek had success teaching the Zoramites who were humble. Invite your children to complete a sentence like “I am being humble when I ______ .”
Planting the Seed of Faith
My testimony of Jesus Christ grows as I nourish it.
(Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 32-35)
- Seeds, trees, and fruit are familiar objects that can help children understand abstract principles like faith and testimony. Let your children hold a seed while you read Alma 32:28. Then you could ask them to help you think of ways that growing a testimony of Jesus Christ is like planting and nourishing a seed (see “Chapter 29: Alma Teaches about Faith and the Word of God,” Book of Mormon Stories, 81). Maybe you could plant your seed and talk about what is needed to help a seed—or a testimony—grow.
Book of Mormon Stories “Alma Teaches about Faith and the Word of God” Video and Images
- A picture of a tree accompanies this outline; you might use it to illustrate Alma’s words in Alma 32:28–43. Or you could go for a walk to find plants at different stages of growth and read verses from Alma 32 that compare a growing plant to our testimony. Or maybe your children could draw a tree on the board and add a leaf or a fruit every time they think of something they can do to help their testimony of Jesus Christ grow.
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 22: Alma Teaches about Faith” Attention Activity: Give each child a seed, show the illustration of a seed, or draw a seed on the chalkboard.
- What can a seed become? (A plant or tree, depending on the type of seed.)
- What must happen before a seed can begin to grow? (Show the illustration of the sprouting seed or draw one on the chalkboard.)
- What does a tree look like when it is young? (Show the illustration of the sap-ling or draw one on the chalkboard.) What does it look like when it is mature? (Show the illustration of a tree or draw one on the chalkboard.)
- What nourishment does a seed need to help it grow into a plant or tree? (Explain that nourishment means something that helps things grow or keeps them alive and well, such as water, fertilizer, sunshine, and soil. Place the illustrations of the sun, rain, soil, and fertilizer near the picture of the seed.)
Explain to the children that in this lesson they will learn how they can grow a strong testimony.
Lesson 22: Alma Teaches Faith Lesson ideas Visual Aids
Friend January 2019 “Testimony Plants” In Primary, the children were supposed to draw a plant that represented their testimony, but Elisa wasn’t sure what that meant or if she had a testimony. She learns that a testimony is the things she believes in like Heavenly Father and Jesus. She also learns that testimonies grow and need to be nourished.
Friend July 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Alma 32:41 together and help your little ones say, “My faith grows when I do good things.” Help your children learn about seeds and plants by picking seeds out of a piece of fruit or caring for a houseplant. Explain that our testimonies grow little by little, like a seed grows into a plant.
As you read Alma 32:26–43 together, stop occasionally and invite the children to draw a picture of the seed or plant being described—for example, a seed and a seedling (verse 28), a growing plant (verse 30), and a mature plant bearing fruit (verse 37). Encourage them to label their pictures with references from Alma 32. How is nourishing a seed like nourishing our testimonies of Jesus Christ? How do we nourish our testimonies? Invite the children to silently think about how their testimonies are growing and what they will do to nourish them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 32-35”)
If possible, give each of the children seeds to take home and plant to remind them to help their testimonies of Jesus Christ to grow.
Show pictures of a plant in various stages of growth, and ask the children to help you put the pictures in the correct order (see the pictures in this week’s activity page). Explain that as we live the gospel, our testimony grows—it starts small like a seed but can become big like a tree. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 32-35”)
Friend January 1999 “Faith in Jesus Christ”
Friend July 2020 “My Family Night Fun”
- Sing “Faith” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97).
- The prophet Alma taught us that faith grows like a seed (see Alma 32:28–30). Faith starts small, but as we work to help it grow, it can become strong!
- Color the pages for the booklet on page 24 with your family. How can you help your faith grow?
Friend January 2019 “Seeds of Faith”
Friend July 2018 Coloring page: Faith is like a seed. When planted it will grow.
Friend January 2019 “Faith” The song “Faith,” simplified for beginning pianists. Also, Sing-along video.
Friend July 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Growing Your Testimony” Alma taught that when you listen to the word of God and do things to show your faith, your testimony will grow, like a tree (see Alma 32:37). Draw things you can do to help a tree grow, like giving it water and sunshine. Then draw things you can do to help your testimony grow, like going to church and praying.
For younger children: Sing “Faith” (Children’s Songbook, 96). While you sing, do actions to show a seed growing big and tall. Talk about growing your testimony.
Media Library “Want to Increase your Faith?”
Come Follow Me Kid Cookie Dough Seed Activity
- Place a small, seed-sized piece of cookie dough on a large cookie sheet. This represents the word of God.
- Take turns listing ways we can help our faith in Jesus and His word grow.
- For each idea, add more dough to the seed-sized piece. Mold it into a tree shape with roots and branches as it gets bigger.
- Read Alma 32:42. What will grow on this tree? (fruit) Place white chocolate chips on the branches to
represent this sweet, white fruit. - Bake and enjoy!
See more teaching ideas at Faith
Alma 33-34
I can pray to Heavenly Father anytime, about anything.
(Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 32-35)
- Help your children find phrases that describe places we can pray (in Alma 33:4–11) and things we can pray about (in Alma 34:17–27). Perhaps they could draw pictures of themselves praying in these places. Share with each other experiences when Heavenly Father heard your prayers. You could also sing a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).
Come Follow Me Kid Show pictures below and ask which place or places they think would be good spots to pray. Read Alma 33:3-8, and have them listen carefully to see if they can hear which of these places would be places we could pray from. Help them understand that we can pray anywhere and our prayers will be heard if we pray in faith. You could also have some fun with this and list additional places/times and ask, “Would it be okay to pray __” (in a car, at midnight, in the backyard, silently, etc.), and help them see that the answer to all of these is “Yes!”
- In the wilderness (Alma 33:4)
- In a field (Alma 33:5)
- In your house (Alma 33:6)
- In your closet (Alma 33:7)
- Help them think of things they can say to Heavenly Father when they pray, and invite them to draw pictures of these things. Testify that they can talk to Heavenly Father about anything they are thinking or feeling.
Latter Day Kids “Pray Always” Lesson ideas
Sing a song that teaches the children about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” or “We Bow Our Heads” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13, 25). Help them notice what the song teaches about prayer.
Additional Prayer Ideas
Additional Resources
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 22: Alma Teaches about Faith”
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 21: The Zoramites and the Rameumptom,” Write the following scripture references on the chalkboard. Ask the children to match the verses that describe the Zoramites’ erroneous beliefs with the verses that contain the correct teachings of Alma and Amulek:
Alma 31:16 (The Zoramites believed there would be no Christ.)
Alma 31:20–23 (All the Zoramites gave the same prayer and then never worshiped again all week.)
Alma 31:24 (The Zoramites’ hearts were set upon riches.)
Alma 34:8 (Amulek testified of Christ.)
Alma 34:19–27 (Amulek taught that we should pray always and about everything.)
Alma 34:28–29 (Amulek taught that we should give of our riches to the poor.)
Alma 30-31
Posted onAlma CHAPTER 30 Korihor, the anti-Christ, ridicules Christ, the Atonement, and the spirit of prophecy—He teaches that there is no God, no fall of man, no penalty for sin, and no Christ—Alma testifies that Christ will come and that all things denote there is a God—Korihor demands a sign and is struck dumb—The devil had appeared to Korihor as an angel and taught him what to say—Korihor is trodden down and dies. About 76–74 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 31 Alma heads a mission to reclaim the apostate Zoramites—The Zoramites deny Christ, believe in a false concept of election, and worship with set prayers—The missionaries are filled with the Holy Spirit—Their afflictions are swallowed up in the joy of Christ. About 74 B.C.
Alma 30
Korihor
The Book of Mormon warns me against false teachings.
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 27: Korihor” Images and Video
Display some items (such as money or food) and toy imitations of these items. Which would the children rather have? This could lead to a discussion about how to know the difference between things that are real and things that are false. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 30-31”)
Help the children identify the lies Korihor taught and write them on strips of paper to put on the board (see Alma 30:12–18, 24). Ask the children to search Alma 30:32–35, looking for ways Alma responded to Korihor’s lies. Ask the children how they can know that the things Alma taught are true. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 30-31”)
Lesson 20: Korihor, an Anti-Christ
Teach the children that the more we learn about something, the more we can tell the difference between that thing and its opposite. The more we learn about and follow Jesus Christ’s teachings, the more we will be able to resist the temptations and deception of Satan.
Why do you suppose the people of Ammon would not listen to Korihor? The people of Ammon had lived most of their lives following Korihor-like-beliefs, and they knew the heartache, the misery, and the destruction it can cause in people’s lives.
Ammon’s people provide good examples of how we should respond when we are confronted with people like Korihor. We should not listen to those who would tear down our faith.
Korihor was arguing, as men and women have falsely argued from the beginning of time, that to take counsel from the servants of God is to surrender God-given rights of independence. But the argument is false because it misrepresents reality. When we reject the counsel which comes from God, we do not choose to be independent of outside influence. We choose another influence. We reject the protection of a perfectly loving, all-powerful, all-knowing Father in Heaven, whose whole purpose, as that of His Beloved Son, is to give us eternal life, to give us all that He has, and to bring us home again in families to the arms of His love. In rejecting His counsel, we choose the influence of another power, whose purpose is to make us miserable and whose motive is hatred. (Henry B. Eyring, “Finding Safety in Counsel,” Ensign, May 1997, 25)
All things testify of God.
(Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 30-31”)
Alma talked about how things in the sky and on the earth testify that God lives. If possible, take a walk outside with your children or stand at a window as you read Alma 30:44. Ask them to point out things they see that help them know that God is real and that He loves them. They could also draw pictures of things they discover (see this week’s activity page).
While you and your children sing “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29), pass around a ball or other object. Periodically stop the music and ask the child holding the object to share one thing Heavenly Father created that he or she is grateful for.
Korihor said he did not believe there was a God, and that there was no such thing as sin.
Why would Satan want people to believe there is no God? One reason is that when a belief in God and his teachings are taken away, Satan can destroy people’s lives through getting them to sin.
Korihor said that we can’t know of things we have not seen. He argued that a person who had not seen God could not know of his existence.
• Ask the children to think of a place they have never visited that exists. Why do you believe that place exists? Just as we have other’s accounts to help us know of places we have not seen, we have the testimonies of prophets, the scriptures, and the Holy Ghost to help us know that God exists.
Also, Alma pointed to things in the sky and on the earth to testify that God lives and directs the universe.
Ensign July 2020 “Family Study Fun” Read Alma 30:44 and talk about how God created this beautiful world for us. Then play this game to continue thinking about God’s creations.
- Have each family member write the letters of the alphabet in a list down one side of a paper.
- For two minutes, everyone should try to write a creation that begins with each letter. For example, you could write “Trees” for the letter T.
- When time runs out, have everyone share their list.
Discussion: How do these blessings from God make you feel? What can we do to take care of God’s creations?
Friend July 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Alma taught that “all things denote there is a God” (Alma 30:44). That means that everything God created can remind us of Him. Set up chairs in a circle with enough chairs for everyone but one person. Have someone play music and choose when it pauses. When the music stops, everyone else sits on a chair. The person who doesn’t have a chair shares one thing that reminds them of God. Keep going until everyone has a turn.
For younger children: Walk around your home or outside. Look for things that help you feel happy and remind you of Heavenly Father.
Friend July 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Alma 30:44 together and help your little ones say, “God made this beautiful world.” Look out a window or go on a walk and help your children name the beautiful things you see—clouds, sky, dirt, bugs, and plants. Testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ created all of these things!
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 30-31”
Read Alma 30:44 to the children, and ask them to listen for things that Alma said help us know God is real. Display pictures of some of these things, and ask the children to point to the pictures when you read about them in the verse. Invite the children to draw pictures of things that help them believe in God.
Latter Day Kids “All Things Denote there is a God” Video and Lesson Ideas
Alma 31
The Zoramites and the Rameumpton
Introduction Ideas
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 21: The Zoramites and the Rameumptom” Have a make-believe dinner. Have two plates, two glasses, and two sets of utensils, but no food. Pretend to eat, and act enthusiastic about the delicious food. Invite a child to join you. Eating off empty dishes could be compared to the emptiness of the false and insincere worship of the Zoramites that is described in this lesson. Such empty worship does no more good for our spiritual nourishment than not eating does for our physical strength. In this lesson the children will learn about appropriate and sincere ways to worship God.
Teaching Children the Gospel: Put the bowl, spoon, and measuring items on the table and explain to the children that you are going to make some peanut butter candy for them. Show them the recipe, but then toss it aside. Tell the children that you have decided not to follow the recipe because you want to try some different ingredients. Show the children the substitute ingredients you brought, and then mix together various amounts of those ingredients. (Be sure to mention the correct recipe ingredients as you do this. For example: “The recipe calls for peanut butter, but I want the candy to be really crunchy so I think I will add whole peanuts.”)
After combining the substitute ingredients show the children the results. Ask them if they think the mixture looks like peanut butter candy.
Ask the children what the results would be if someone tried to make up their own ingredients for gaining salvation instead of following Heavenly Father’s plan. Would they get the desired results? Tell the children that in today’s lesson they will be learning about a group of people who tried to do just that.
Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 28: The Zoramites and the Rameumptom” Video and Images
Lessons
Lesson 21 – Zoramite’s Prayers on a Rameumptom
The word of God is powerful.
The problem of the Zoramites separating from the Nephites may have seemed to some like it needed a political or military solution (see Alma 31:1–4). But Alma said that the Word of God is more powerful than the sword.
How can you help your children understand that the word of God is more powerful than “anything else”? (Alma 31:5). Consider asking them to think of something or someone powerful, or show pictures of a few powerful things. What makes them powerful? Read Alma 31:5 together, and ask your children what they think this verse means. Share an experience when the word of God had a powerful influence on you. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 30-31”)
What does God’s word have the power to do? Change hearts to good
Repeat the phrase “The word of God is more powerful than …” several times, and ask the children to help you complete the phrase.
Sing together a song about the scriptures, such as “Scripture Power” (music.ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and ask the children to listen for how the scriptures help us.
Heavenly Father hears my prayers.
- Briefly summarize the story of Alma and the Zoramites, using verses from Alma 31:8–35 (see also “Chapter 28: The Zoramites and the Rameumptom,” Book of Mormon Stories, 78–80). Help your children identify things the Zoramites said in their prayer (see Alma 31:15–18) as they help you build a Rameumptom tower with blocks or rocks. Explain that this is not how we should pray. As you and your children talk about how we should pray, let them remove the blocks or rocks one at a time. Maybe they could keep one of the rocks by their bed as a reminder to pray every morning and night. They might enjoy decorating their rock. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 30-31”)
Book of Mormon Stories for Young Readers “Alma Teaches How to Pray” Video and story pictures
The Zoramites Prayers were Repetitious: Said same thing every time. They also only prayed once a week.
What happens if we don’t pray daily and sincerely? We tend to lose the guidance of the Spirit, which is essential for managing the challenges and temptations of life. What was the result of the Zoramites not praying daily? They succumbed to Satan’s temptations.
Why did the Zoramites choose to believe in incorrect principles about God, and why did they not want to believe in Christ? One possible reason may have been to deny the doctrine of the plan of salvation – of coming to earth to get a body and be tested. They wanted to think they were elected (chosen) to be saved regardless of what they did. They did not want to believe in sin or the need for a Savior.
Alma showed faith in God and Jesus Christ
Alma petitioned the Lord for blessings in his prayer. He had faith that the Lord would bless and help him.
See PRAYER for activity, stories, a lesson ideas about prayer.
Additional Resources
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 21: The Zoramites and the Rameumptom” Lesson ideas
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 20: Korihor, the Anti-Christ,” Lesson ideas
Come Follow Me Kid “The Virtue of the Word of God”
