W. Cleon Skousen Insights

Alma 32 - 35 Alma's Last Mission and the Power of Faith

Alma 32 - 35

In this episode, we delve into Alma chapter 32, where Alma and his fellow missionaries embark on a vigorous mission to preach the gospel among the Zoramites. Despite their challenges, they find success among the poor who are eager to listen. Alma discovers the humble hearts of the poor and teaches them that they can worship God anywhere, not just in synagogues.

Alma shares a powerful parable about faith, comparing it to planting a seed that can grow into a tree bearing fruit. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing faith with diligence and patience. Alma's teachings highlight that true faith does not rely on signs but on hope for things unseen.

The episode also explores Amulek's testimony, who joins Alma in teaching the Zoramites about the coming of Christ and the significance of the atonement. Amulek explains that the atonement is based on mercy, not justice, and calls the people to repent and seek God's mercy.

Through Alma and Amulek's teachings, we learn about the necessity of faith, repentance, and the powerful impact of the atonement. This episode provides profound insights into the principles of faith and the eternal plan of salvation.

Alma 30 - 31 Korihor's Challenge: The Rise and Fall of an Antichrist

Alma 30 - 31

The 16th year of the reign of the judges marks a significant period of peace after a devastating war, as the Nephites and the children of Ammon recover and honor the law of Moses. However, this tranquility is shattered in the 17th year by the emergence of Korihor, an eloquent Antichrist who preaches against the coming of Christ and the teachings of the prophets.

Korihor's persuasive rhetoric leads many Nephites astray, but he faces resistance from the people of Ammon and the high priests in various lands. Ultimately, he is brought before Alma, who challenges Korihor's beliefs and, after a dramatic confrontation, strikes him dumb. Korihor confesses his deceit, revealing that he was influenced by the devil.

As Korihor wanders, begging for food, his story serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that Satan abandons his followers in times of need. Meanwhile, Alma and his missionary companions prepare to counter the growing apostasy among the Zoramites, showcasing the enduring battle between faith and falsehood in the land of Zarahemla. 

Alma 23 - 29 The Miraculous Conversion of the Lamanites

Alma 23 - 29

In this episode, we delve into the remarkable transformation of the Lamanites under the decree of their king, who declared protection for the missionaries. This decree allowed Ammon, Aaron, and their brethren to preach freely across the land, leading to the extensive conversion of thousands. The Lamanites, once fierce adversaries of the Nephites, embraced the teachings of the gospel and laid down their weapons of war.

We explore the profound impact of this decree, the establishment of churches, and the consecration of priests and teachers throughout the land. The converted Lamanites, now called Anti-Nephi-Lehies, became industrious and friendly with the Nephites, forging new bonds and opening correspondence with them. The episode highlights the astonishing success of the missionaries and the unwavering faith of the converted Lamanites, who chose to suffer death rather than commit sin.

As tensions rose, the unconverted Lamanites, stirred up by apostate Nephites, rebelled against their king and waged war against the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. Despite the violence, the faith and love of the converted Lamanites shone through, leading to further conversions even in the face of persecution.

Join us as we recount this extraordinary period of faith, transformation, and the ultimate triumph of the gospel among the Lamanites, culminating in their migration to the land of Jershon and the establishment of a new, righteous community.

Alma 17 - 22 The Sons of Mosiah: A Missionary Journey Among the Lamanites

Alma 17 - 22

Discover the remarkable journey of the four sons of King Mosiah as they embark on a fourteen-year mission to preach the gospel among the Lamanites. Alma, while traveling from Gideon to Manti, unexpectedly reunites with these old friends and learns of their extraordinary experiences.

Through diligent study, prayer, and fasting, the sons of Mosiah have become powerful teachers endowed with the spirit of prophecy and revelation. Despite facing severe trials and afflictions, they have succeeded in converting many Lamanites to the knowledge of the truth.

Ammon, the leader among them, demonstrates his faith and strength in a series of miraculous events, including his encounter with King Lamoni and his subsequent battle against sheep rustlers. The episode also covers the transformative effects of the gospel on King Lamoni and his people, leading to a significant spiritual awakening among the Lamanites.

Follow the sons of Mosiah as they navigate through adversities, spread the word of God, and witness the profound changes in the hearts and minds of the Lamanites. This episode is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of divine guidance.

Alma 13 - 16

Alma 13 - 16

Alma 8 - 12

Alma 8 - 12

Alma 5 - 7

Alma 5 - 7

Mosiah 29 - Alma 4

Mosiah 29 - Alma 4

Mosiah 25 - 28

Mosiah 25 - 28

Mosiah 18 - 24 Come Into the Fold of God

Alma, having fled from King Noah, repents of his sins and begins to teach the words of Abinadi. He baptizes converts at the waters of Mormon and establishes a church of God. King Noah discovers the church and sends an army to destroy it, but Alma and his 450 converts flee into the wilderness for safety.

The Lamanites attack the Nephites and King Noah, along with his high priests, abandon their people and families and flee into the wilderness, where Noah suffers death by fire. The Nephites become subjects to the Lamanites and Noah's son Limhi reigns as the Nephite king, but now as a tributary monarch under the Lamanites.

Ammon arrives from Zarahemla, giving King Limhi hope knowing that the people of Zarahemla have not been destroyed. Together, Ammon and Limhi devise a plan to escape from the Lamanites, and along with their flocks and herds, they all flee into the wilderness. Ammon leads them through the wildersness until they find refuge in Zarahemla.

Meanwhile, Alma, having established a peaceful existense in the wilderness, are discovered by the Lamanite army searching for Limhi. Noah's wicked high priests are also discovered but give their allegience to the Lamanites, and become taskmasters over Alma and his people. The people suffer burdens, afflictions and persecutions but remain faithful and pray to God for deliverence. The Lord helps Alma and the saints escape their capture and make their way to freedom in Zarahemla.