Alma 4

(All of my own thoughts are in red type 6/20 Green 4/21Orange 7/22  Brown 2023)

Chapter 4

Alma baptizes thousands of converts—Iniquity enters the Church, and the Church’s progress is hindered—Nephihah is appointed chief judge—Alma, as high priest, devotes himself to the ministry. About 86–83 B.C.

  1 Now it came to pass in the sixth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, there were no contentions nor wars in the ^aland of Zarahemla;
  2 But the people were afflicted, yea, greatly afflicted for the loss of their brethren, and also for the ^aloss of their flocks and herds, and also for the loss of their fields of grain, which were trodden under foot and destroyed by the Lamanites.
  3 And so great were their afflictions that every soul had cause to mourn; and they believed that it was the judgments of God sent upon them because of their wickedness and their abominations; therefore they were ^aawakened to a remembrance of their duty. Maybe this is why they lost so much in battle even though the Lord helped them win. They were not totally righteous, but maybe more righteous or righteous enough to merit God's help...I think I just read a statement by an apostle that COVID was not a judgment from God. I hope not, because I don't know how much repentance has taken place... It was Elder Holland that said that. In October 2020 General Conference, Elder Bednar seemed to imply that it was more of a “test”. Whatever it was/is...I think God has allowed it to come by the hands of evil, just like he let the Lamanites be the means of judgment on the wicked Nephites.
  4 And they began to establish the ^achurch more fully; yea, and many were ^bbaptized in the ^cwaters of Sidon and were joined to the church of God; yea, they were baptized by the hand of Alma, who had been consecrated the ^dhigh priest over the people of the church, by the hand of his father Alma.
  5 And it came to pass in the seventh year of the reign of the judges there were about three thousand five hundred souls that united themselves to the ^achurch of God and were baptized. And thus ended the seventh year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi; and there was continual peace in all that time.
  6 And it came to pass in the eighth year of the reign of the judges, that the people of the church began to wax proud, because of their exceeding ^ariches, and their ^bfine silks, and their fine-twined linen, and because of their many flocks and herds, and their gold and their silver, and all manner of precious things, which they had obtained by their ^cindustry; and in all these things were they lifted up in the pride of their eyes, for they began to wear very costly ^dapparel. What is it with the pull of costly apparel? This pride happened very fast as did their prosperity. It sounds like one of their justifications for thinking they were more deserving was that they had “obtained by their industry”...so maybe they thought they worked harder, or were smarter and so they deserved more than others. 
  7 Now this was the cause of much affliction to Alma, yea, and to many of the people whom Alma had consecrated to be ^ateachers, and ^bpriests, and ^celders over the church; yea, many of them were sorely grieved for the wickedness which they saw had begun to be among their people. Today, it seems like the teachers/leaders are not the ones who see the wickedness of the people, but teach more as if "all is well in zion"...
  8 For they saw and beheld with great sorrow that the people of the church began to be lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and to set their ^ahearts upon riches and upon the vain things of the world, that they began to be scornful, one towards another, and they began to persecute those that did ^bnot believe according to their own will and pleasure. We have to really guard against this. "Mask-wearing" is the issue of our day... Interesting that it’s phrased they persecuted others who didn’t believe “according to their own will and pleasure” so it wasn’t that they didn’t “get” the truth, but that they didn’t agree with them on whatever they wanted to say was important or however they interpreted things.
  9 And thus, in this eighth year of the reign of the judges, there began to be great ^acontentions among the people of the church; yea, there were ^benvyings, and ^cstrife, and malice, and persecutions, and pride, even to exceed the pride of those who did not belong to the church of God. This is not a good sign when the wickedness within is worse than from without! This is going to sound like a play on words, but we just had a government sanctioned "Gay Pride Month" and many in the church support it. If people spoke freely about how they felt, there would be much "strife and persecution and pride" in the church of our day as well!
 10 And thus ended the eighth year of the reign of the judges; and the wickedness of the church was a great ^astumbling-block to those who did not belong to the church; and thus the church began to fail in its progress. No one wants to join a church full of hypocrites! 
 11 And it came to pass in the commencement of the ninth year, Alma saw the wickedness of the church, and he saw also that the ^aexample of the church began to lead those who were unbelievers on from one piece of iniquity to another, thus bringing on the destruction of the people. This must have been so hard for Alma because of where his own heart once was... Did the example of the church lead unbelievers to iniquity because the church members were leading them in that sin? Or was it because they couldn’t preach truth effectively, so that kept the unbelievers in their sins...
 12 Yea, he saw great inequality among the people, some lifting themselves up with their pride, despising others, turning their backs upon the ^aneedy and the naked and those who were ^bhungry, and those who were athirst, and those who were sick and afflicted.
 13 Now this was a great cause for lamentations among the people, while others were abasing themselves, I think this means to purposely see yourself lower than others; the opposite of pride; maybe specifically choosing to NOT wear costly apparel but to point the finger of scorn at those who did...succoring those who stood in need of their succor, such as imparting their substance to the ^apoor and the needy, feeding the hungry, and suffering all manner of ^bafflictions, for Christ’s ^csake, who should come according to the spirit of prophecy; This seems to be taught repeatedly in the Book of Mormon. One thing that sets the righteous apart is their willingness to care for the needy. I’m wondering if the way we care for the needy in the church, through fast offerings, and the needy going to the Bishop...that we become disconnected from the people we are caring for and just trust the ‘system’ to take care of others. This of course, leaves out the human ministering part of caring for the poor. If I were to ask the bishop who was “needy” would it be considered an invasion of privacy for him to tell me? Is that a form of pride on the poor’s part? I think we’d have more of a Zion ward if the caring of the poor and needy was more person to person... I think it's important to see the suffering of all our afflictions as being "for Christ's sake". Ponder what that means...Also, if the spirit of prophecy is a gift given to those who are born again and receive the Holy Ghost, this phrases "according to the spirit of prophecy" may be implying that these people had received that witness for themselves. I'm praying for that every day!
 14 Looking forward to that day, thus ^aretaining a ^bremission of their sins; looks like a sign that they HAD received a remission of their sins and were born again being filled with great ^cjoy because of the resurrection of the dead, according to the will and power and ^ddeliverance of Jesus Christ from the bands of death. Eternal perspective is all you have when your day to day reality is so hard. This is why I think it's so important that all the saints receive this baptism by fire. Our reality is going to get very difficult soon. I think we need this experience to help us also suffer all our afflictions for Christ's sake. 

1 Nephi 14:14 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.

I hope this verse means that this gift is coming in large numbers to arm us in preparation for this great coming conflict!

15 And now it came to pass that Alma, having seen the afflictions of the humble followers of God, and the persecutions which were heaped upon them by the remainder of his people, and seeing all their ^ainequality, began to be very sorrowful; nevertheless the Spirit of the Lord did not fail him. You can be sorrowful and not hopeless
 16 And he selected a wise man who was among the ^aelders of the church, and gave him power according to the ^bvoice of the people, that he might have power to enact ^claws according to the laws which had been given, and to put them in force according to the wickedness and the crimes of the people.
 17 Now this man’s name was ^aNephihah, and he was appointed ^bchief judge; and he sat in the judgment-seat to judge and to govern the people.
 18 Now Alma did not grant unto him the office of being ^ahigh priest over the church, but he retained the office of high priest unto himself; but he delivered the judgment-seat unto ^bNephihah.
 19 And this he did that he ^ahimself might go forth among his people, or among the people of Nephi, that he might ^bpreach the ^cword of God unto them, to ^dstir them up in ^eremembrance of their duty, and that he might pull down, by the word of God, all the pride and craftiness and all the contentions which were among his people, seeing no way that he might reclaim them save it were in bearing down in pure ^ftestimony against them. At some point this is where you get...Only the “truth” can set you free. I think we need a good “stirring up” in the church. All the soft talk just keeps people apathetic and feeling complacent. And if we are so fragile because we have no true self worth, well... what can you do then? You don't reclaim lost faith by pandering. You preach the pure word of God. You try to move people by changing their perspective. You bear pure testimony against their false beliefs. Hard words but they work!
 20 And thus in the commencement of the ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, Alma delivered up the judgment-seat to ^aNephihah, and confined himself wholly to the ^bhigh priesthood of the holy order of God, to the ^ctestimony of the word, according to the spirit of revelation and prophecy.

Alma 3

(All of my own thoughts are in red type 6/20 Green 4/21 orange 7/22 Brown 7/2-23)

Chapter 3

The Amlicites had marked themselves according to the prophetic word—The Lamanites had been cursed for their rebellion—Men bring their own curses upon themselves—The Nephites defeat another Lamanite army. About 87–86 B.C.

  1 And it came to pass that the Nephites who were not ^aslain by the weapons of war, after having buried those who had been slain—now the number of the slain were not numbered, because of the greatness of their number—after they had finished burying their dead they all returned to their lands, and to their houses, and their wives, and their children. They had a great respect for the human body. And perhaps it was a health issue to not have all those bodies rotting above ground.
  2 Now many women and children had been slain with the sword, so hard to picture...and also many of their flocks and their herds; and also many of their fields of grain were destroyed, for they were trodden down by the hosts of men. It must break God’s heart to see this happen to innocent women and children...
  3 And now as many of the Lamanites and the Amlicites who had been slain upon the bank of the river Sidon were cast into the ^awaters of Sidon; and behold their bones are in the depths of the ^bsea, and they are many. there’s a project for you...find a river (interesting they also called it a ‘sea’) where there's a ton of bones (if they haven’t decayed to nothing...)
  4 And the ^aAmlicites were distinguished from the Nephites, for they had ^bmarked themselves with red in their foreheads after the manner of the Lamanites; nevertheless they had not shorn their heads like unto the Lamanites. People always divide themselves apart with something...clothes, tattoos, houses, cars, etc.
  5 Now the heads of the Lamanites were shorn; and they were ^anaked, save it were skin which was girded about their loins, and also their armor, which was girded about them, and their bows, and their arrows, and their stones, and their slings, and so forth. This is the stereotype Indian, it seems...
  6 And the skins of the Lamanites were dark, according to the mark which was set upon their fathers, which was a ^acurse upon them because of their transgression and their rebellion against their brethren, hard to read this any other way than literally  However you could read it, that the dark skin was a sign that a mark had been set upon their fathers and that mark was a curse who consisted of Nephi, Jacob, and Joseph, and Sam, who were just and holy men.  
  7 And their brethren sought to destroy them, therefore they were cursed; not because of their skin color, but because they sought to destroy their brethren; that is why they were cursed and the curse wasn't the skin color and the Lord God set a ^amark upon them, yea, upon Laman and Lemuel, and also the sons of Ishmael, and Ishmaelitish women. For as much as we want to be “inclusive” and not racist, it’s interesting to see that God Himself set a mark on the wicked to keep them separate from the Nephites. What must never mix, is correct beliefs with incorrect beliefs. This is really hard to keep pure if you mix beliefs in the same household. The children have to be left to choose one or the other, and of coarse, some choose the side of error. Eventually it destroys the family and then the nation.
  8 And this was done that their seed might be distinguished from the seed of their brethren, that thereby the Lord God might preserve his people, that they might not ^amix and believe in incorrect ^btraditions which would prove their destruction. 
  9 And it came to pass that whosoever did mingle his seed with that of the Lamanites did bring the same curse upon his seed. Genetics here
 10 Therefore, whosoever suffered himself to be led away by the Lamanites was called under that head, and there was a mark set upon him. You can see, that the Amlicites, who were white, set a mark upon themselves, to distinguish themselves from the other Nephites. The "mark" represented their beliefs. Today it's just genetics. And we also see that at the end of the Book of Mormon, the white Nephites were more wicked than the Lamanites. The color of their skin did not "make" them better or righteous or protect them in any way, or show they were superior or more favored by God. Look for the true meaning of "the mark".
 11 And it came to pass that whosoever would not believe in the ^atradition of the Lamanites, but believed those records which were brought out of the land of Jerusalem, and also in the tradition of their fathers, which were correct, who believed in the commandments of God and kept them, were ^bcalled the Nephites, or the people of Nephi, from that time forth—Names are important to God. He identifies His sheep by His Name. This includes Lamanites who converted. 
 12 And it is they who have kept the records which are ^atrue of their people, and also of the people of the Lamanites. I don't think the Lamanites kept records. It was a blessing ultimately for the Lamanites that the Nephites kept records. Did not having the records make it hard for them to teach the written language?
 13 Now we will return again to the Amlicites, for they also had a ^amark set upon them; yea, they set the mark upon themselves, yea, even a mark of red upon their foreheads. Ultimately, we separate ourselves apart from others. There is "a mark" and there is the "curse". The mark was the dark skin or the mark on their forehead and the curse was being separated from God.
 14 Thus the word of God is fulfilled, for these are the words which he said to Nephi: Behold, the Lamanites have I cursed, and I will set a mark on them that they and their seed may be ^aseparated from thee and thy seed, from this time henceforth and forever, except they repent of their wickedness and ^bturn to me that I may have mercy upon them. Notice the separation was only because of their incorrect beliefs. If they repented and turned to God, then he would have mercy on them and they could be one with their brothers again. 
 15 And again: I will set a mark upon him that mingleth his seed with thy brethren, that they may be cursed also.
 16 And again: I will set a mark upon him that fighteth against thee and thy seed. This sounds like the Amlicites marking themselves was still God’s will.
 17 And again, I say he that departeth from thee shall no more be called thy seed; and I will bless thee, and whomsoever shall be called thy seed, henceforth and forever; and these were the promises of the Lord unto Nephi and to his seed. God is the one who did the 'Marking' not man.
 18 Now the Amlicites knew not that they were fulfilling the words of God when they began to mark themselves in their foreheads; nevertheless they had come out in open ^arebellion against God; therefore it was expedient that the curse should fall upon them. You can believe or not believe what you want, but the word of God WILL be fulfilled. And that "word" was that God would "set a mark upon him that mingleth his seed with they brethren, that they may be cursed also."
 19 Now I would that ye should see that they brought upon themselves the ^acurse; and even so doth every man that is cursed bring upon himself his own condemnation. You are not "born" into a curse. Every man regardless of their genetics, brings upon themselves their own curse through rebellion.
 20 Now it came to pass that not many days after the battle which was fought in the land of Zarahemla, by the Lamanites and the Amlicites, that there was another army of the Lamanites came in upon the people of Nephi, in the ^asame place where the first army met the Amlicites. No time to rest!
 21 And it came to pass that there was an army sent to drive them out of their land.
 22 Now Alma himself being afflicted with a ^awound did not go up to battle at this time against the Lamanites;
 23 But he sent up a numerous army against them; and they went up and slew many of the Lamanites, and drove the remainder of them out of the borders of their land.
 24 And then they returned again and began to establish peace in the land, being troubled no more for a time with their enemies. Ok, finally, a moment of rest.
 25 Now all these things were done, yea, all these wars and contentions were commenced and ended in the fifth year of the reign of the judges. A lot can happen in one year.
 26 And in one year were thousands and tens of thousands of souls sent to the eternal world, that they might reap their ^arewards according to their works, whether they were good or whether they were bad, to reap eternal happiness or eternal misery, according to the spirit which they listed to obey, whether it be a good spirit or a bad one. This is a great scripture on the reality of the spirits that entice us! This verse is about the reality of death whether you be wicked or righteous. 
 27 For every man receiveth ^awages of him whom he listeth to ^bobey, and this according to the words of the spirit of prophecy; therefore let it be according to the truth. And thus endeth the fifth year of the reign of the judges.

Alma 2

(All of my own thoughts are in red type 6/20 Green 4/21 orange7/22 Brown 7/2023.)

Chapter 2

Amlici seeks to be king and is rejected by the voice of the people—His followers make him king—The Amlicites make war on the Nephites and are defeated—The Lamanites and Amlicites join forces and are defeated—Alma slays Amlici. About 87 B.C.

  1 And it came to pass in the commencement of the fifth year of their reign there began to be a contention among the people; for a certain man, being called Amlici, he being a very cunning man, yea, a wise man as to the wisdom of the world, he being after the order of the man that slew Gideon by the sword, who was executed according to the law—secret combinations
  2 Now this Amlici had, by his cunning, drawn away much people after him; even so much that they began to be very powerful; and they began to endeavor to establish Amlici to be a king over the people. Does the natural man want to be a part of a cause/movement? Do they seek a leader to rally around? It seems that the "freedom" they were granted by not having a king tempted many to seek power. Ironic that Amlici is "free" to do what he's doing because of the very form of government he's trying to overthrow...
  3 Now this was alarming to the people of the church, and also to all those who had not been drawn away after the persuasions of Amlici; for they knew that according to their law that such things must be established by the voice of the people.
  4 Therefore, if it were possible that Amlici should gain the voice of the people, he, being a wicked man, would deprive them of their rights and privileges of the church; for it was his intent to destroy the church of God. Make no mistake. The end game of all secret combinations is to destroy the church of God. I know why the church of God is a threat to Satan- the true head of the beast, but, do these minions know that is his endgame? 
  5 And it came to pass that the people assembled themselves together throughout all the land, every man according to his mind, whether it were for or against Amlici, in separate bodies, having much dispute and wonderful other definitions: surprising; strange; astonishing contentions one with another.
  6 And thus they did assemble themselves together to cast in their voices concerning the matter; and they were laid before the judges.
  7 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came against Amlici, that he was not made king over the people. If it had passed, it would have been their last vote. Again...very ironic for those that wanted a king.
  8 Now this did cause much joy in the hearts of those who were against him; but Amlici did stir up those who were in his favor to anger against those who were not in his favor. This has been in full force these last 3 1/2 years when the "left side" lost the election... and so it continues. The “left” won the election by fraud but they still are stirring up contention all the time! 
  9 And it came to pass that they gathered themselves together, and did consecrate Amlici to be their king. They basically seceded and made their own government
  10 Now when Amlici was made king over them he commanded them evil always commands by force. God commands and you still have choice and consequence. that they should take up arms against their brethren; and this he did that he might subject them to him. give him power and he'll command you for his own gain...
 11 Now the people of Amlici were distinguished by the name of Amlici, being called Amlicites; and the remainder were called Nephites, or the people of God.
 12 Therefore the people of the Nephites were aware of the intent of the Amlicites, and therefore they did prepare to meet them; yea, they did arm themselves with swords, and with cimeters, and with bows, and with arrows, and with stones, and with slings, and with all manner of weapons of war, of every kind.
 13 And thus they were prepared to meet the Amlicites at the time of their coming. And there were appointed captains, and higher captains, and chief captains, according to their numbers.
 14 And it came to pass that Amlici did arm his men with all manner of weapons of war of every kind; and he also appointed rulers and leaders over his people, to lead them to war against their brethren.
 15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites.
 16 Now Alma, being the chief judge and the governor of the people of Nephi, therefore he went up with his people, yea, with his captains, and chief captains, yea, at the head of his armies, against the Amlicites to battle. I think most kings do not go to war themselves...Alma was a true leader. No wimpy ruling for him! 
 17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites.
 18 Nevertheless the Lord did strengthen the hand of the Nephites, that they slew the Amlicites with great slaughter, that they began to flee before them. Being former Nephites, the Amlicites should have known God would strengthen the Nephites against them  
 19 And it came to pass that the Nephites did pursue the Amlicites all that day, and did slay them with much slaughter, insomuch that there were slain of the Amlicites twelve thousand five hundred thirty and two souls; and there were slain of the Nephites six thousand five hundred sixty and two souls. Still a great loss in the battle for freedom. Even though the Lord was with the Nephites, they still lost a lot of lives that day. I wonder why they didn't have a better showing from the power of God?
 20 And it came to pass that when Alma could pursue the Amlicites no longer he caused that his people should pitch their tents in the valley of Gideon, the valley being called after that Gideon who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword; and in this valley the Nephites did pitch their tents for the night.
 21 And Alma sent spies to follow the remnant of the Amlicites, that he might know of their plans and their plots, whereby he might guard himself against them, that he might preserve his people from being destroyed.
 22 Now those whom he had sent out to watch the camp of the Amlicites were called Zeram, and Amnor, and Manti, and Limher; these were they who went out with their men to watch the camp of the Amlicites.
 23 And it came to pass that on the morrow they returned into the camp of the Nephites in great haste, being greatly astonished, and struck with much fear, saying:
 24 Behold, we followed the camp of the Amlicites, and to our great astonishment, in the land of Minon, above the land of Zarahemla, in the course of the land of Nephi, we saw a numerous host of the Lamanites; and behold, the Amlicites have joined them;
 25 And they are upon our brethren in that land; and they are fleeing before them with their flocks, and their wives, and their children, towards our city; and except we make haste they obtain possession of our city, and our fathers, and our wives, and our children be slain.
 26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla.
 27 And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them. terrifying picture!
 28 Nevertheless, the Nephites being strengthened by the hand of the Lord, having prayed mightily to him that he would deliver them out of the hands of their enemies, therefore the Lord did hear their cries, and did strengthen them, and the Lamanites and the Amlicites did fall before them. Numbers mean nothing if the Lord is fighting for you.
 29 And it came to pass that Alma fought with Amlici what are the odds!?! with the sword, face to face; and they did contend mightily, one with another.
 30 And it came to pass that Alma, being a man of God, being exercised with much faith, cried, What does being “exercised” with much faith mean? If you think of exercise as being something you actively do to strengthen your body, then perhaps to be exercised with much faith means you have had many experiences that have stretched and strengthened your faith; much faith has been needed throughout your life saying: O Lord, have mercy and spare my life, that I may be an instrument in thy hands to save and preserve this people. A true test of the heart to pray to be preserved to serve others in the very moment. No such prayer recorded by Amlici...
 31 Now when Alma had said these words he contended again with Amlici; and he was strengthened, insomuch that he slew Amlici with the sword.
 32 And he also contended with the king of the Lamanites;  another “what are the odds” moment...but the king of the Lamanites fled back from before Alma and sent his guards to contend with Alma.
 33 But Alma, with his guards, see the difference in leadership? contended with the guards of the king of the Lamanites until he slew and drove them back.
 34 And thus he cleared the ground, or rather the bank, which was on the west of the river Sidon, throwing the bodies of the Lamanites who had been slain into the waters of Sidon, that thereby his people might have room to cross and contend with the Lamanites and the Amlicites on the west side of the river Sidon.
 35 And it came to pass that when they had all crossed the river Sidon that the Lamanites and the Amlicites began to flee before them, notwithstanding they were so numerous that they could not be numbered.
 36 And they fled before the Nephites towards the wilderness which was west and north, away beyond the borders of the land; and the Nephites did pursue them with their might, and did slay them.
 37 Yea, they were met on every hand, and slain and driven, until they were scattered on the west, and on the north, until they had reached the wilderness, which was called Hermounts; and it was that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts.
 38 And it came to pass that many died in the wilderness of their wounds, and were devoured by those beasts and also the vultures of the air; and their bones have been found, and have been heaped up on the earth. Wickedness never was happiness and Satan never fights your battles and even if he tried he can never win against the Lord. I think they retreated because they knew that God wasn't on the side of the Lamanites and they knew their history and they knew they would lose once they knew God was fighting for the other side. Be on the right side! 

Alma 1

(All of my own thoughts are in red type 6/20 Green 4/21 orange 7/22 Brown 2023)

The Book of Alma the Son of Alma

The account of Alma, who was the son of Alma, the first and chief judge over the people of Nephi, and also the high priest over the Church. An account of the reign of the judges, and the wars and contentions among the people. And also an account of a war between the Nephites and the Lamanites, according to the record of Alma, the first and chief judge.

Chapter 1

Nehor teaches false doctrines, establishes a church, introduces priestcraft, and slays Gideon—Nehor is executed for his crimes—Priestcrafts and persecutions spread among the people—The priests support themselves, the people care for the poor, and the Church prospers. About 91–88 B.C.

  1 Now it came to pass that in the first year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, from this time forward, king Mosiah having gone the way of all the earth, having warred a good warfare, against evil walking uprightly before God, leaving none to reign in his stead; nevertheless he had established laws, and they were acknowledged by the people; therefore they were obliged to abide by the laws which he had made. People ruled by kings are not accountable for the unjust things the kings demand? Is that correct? At least they are on record has having NOT acknowledged the kings laws as they have no voice in the matter. Whether they are accountable for following those unjust things when perhaps they had the agency to leave and go live somewhere else, I don't know...
  2 And it came to pass that in the first year of the reign of Alma in the judgment-seat, there was a man brought before him to be judged, a man who was large, and was noted for his much strength. Did he persuade people by intimidation because of his large stature and strength? 
  3 And he had gone about among the people, preaching to them that which he termed to be the word of God, bearing down against the church; declaring unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people. What is the attraction of "popular" teachers? We have those in the church and at Ed Week, their classes are attended in greater numbers. They are not paid more, though, but in the church there could be the "attraction" that if we paid the "good" teachers, we wouldn't have to suffer through the "bad" ones...lol Also, some apostate groups claim to believe in God, Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith, so they claim to have the word of God, but bear down against the church and it’s leaders. 
  4 And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life .Is this the half-truth tactic of Satan? Yes, the Lord created all men and redeemed all men so they can have eternal life, but only IF they repent and keep His commandments. We DO need to fear and tremble because justice will claim all those who DON'T repent! I could see this false teaching making a reappearance from the springboard of the LGBTQ agenda. "God loves everyone the same; He created us 'as we are' and He only creates good and perfection; All we have to do is love each other 'as we are' and not judge and we will be saved; God is the only judge of right and wrong so we just need to let people do whatever they feel is right and love them and we'll all be saved" etc....
  5 And it came to pass that he did teach these things so much that many did believe on his words, even so many that they began to support him and give him money. Why? Why support him with their money so he doesn’t have to work, just preach? Maybe they had to pay to hear him, like we pay to hear lectures.
  6 And he began to be lifted up in the pride of his heart, and to wear very costly apparel, yea, and even began to establish a church after the manner of his preaching. Why costly apparel? Do we really give more attention to the words of those who speak to us in nicer clothes? There are some "businesses" out there that claim it matters what color we wear and style and people relate to us differently based on our clothes. It feels like manipulation to wear things to attract a certain form of acceptance. And if the people would not have supported him with their money, would he have been able to sway as many people? 
  7 And it came to pass as he was going, to preach to those who believed on his word, he met a man who belonged to the church of God, yea, even one of their teachers; and he began to contend with him sharply, that he might lead away the people of the church; but the man withstood him, admonishing him with the words of God. The words of God are more powerful than the flattery of man. This is why we must first "obtain the word of God". Is this just scripture knowledge or something more? (Baptism by Fire; More Sure Word of Prophecy, etc) There may be significance in the wording here. The one preaching against the word of God is the one who "contended" because he's the one Satan is "stirring up". The true man of God isn't "contending" but "admonishing with the words of God". Admonishing means: "criticism to correct". 
 8 Now the name of the man was Gideon; and it was he who was an instrument in the hands of God in delivering the people of Limhi out of bondage. He isn't given "prophet" status in this record, but he sure is in tune with the Spirit and receives many revelations or inspirations.
 9 Now, because Gideon withstood him with the words of God he was wroth with Gideon, and drew his sword and began to smite him. Now Gideon being stricken with many years, therefore he was not able to withstand his blows, therefore he was slain by the sword. This is a hard one. A man that was so righteous and had done so much good was not delivered from the hands of an evil man. Why? We just have no idea if we will die as a martyr or be saved by divine intervention. We have to be willing to stand for truth no matter what the outcome. Do what is right....let the consequence follow. Sigh. That is so hard. Also, this is another crazy example of someone who is so powerful with words and has been free to say them, but when he meets someone who's words are different than his, that person wants to kill him? That is sooooo extreme for only the words someone speaks!
 10 And the man who slew him was taken by the people of the church, and was brought before Alma, to be judged according to the crimes which he had committed.
 11 And it came to pass that he stood before Alma and pled for himself with much boldness. pride what could he possible have said to defend his murdering Gideon over a difference in belief?
 12 But Alma said unto him: Behold, this is the first time that priestcraft has been introduced among this people. And behold, thou art not only guilty of priestcraft, but hast endeavored to enforce it by the sword; and were priestcraft to be enforced among this people it would prove their entire destruction. Truly the agendas of the Left today are a religion to them and they want to be paid by their supporters and enforce their beliefs by the law or even the sword. And it will also "prove our entire destruction" if it continues unchecked. 
 13 And thou hast shed the blood of a righteous man, yea, a man who has done much good among this people; and were we to spare thee his blood would come upon us for vengeance.
 14 Therefore thou art condemned to die, according to the law which has been given us by Mosiah, our last king; and it has been acknowledged by this people; therefore this people must abide by the law. Capital punishment is in the scriptures.
 15 And it came to pass that they took him; and his name was Nehor; and they carried him upon the top of the hill Manti, and there he was caused, or rather did acknowledge, between the heavens and the earth, that what he had taught to the people was contrary to the word of God; and there he suffered an ignominious (shameful; dishonorable) death. At first it says he was 'caused' which sounds like 'forced against is will' to disavow his teachings. But then it says 'or rather did acknowledge between the heavens and the earth' which sounds like he confessed (on his deathbed, which may have the the 'cause' of the confession).
 16 Nevertheless, this did not put an end to the spreading of priestcraft through the land; for there were many who loved the vain things of the world, and they went forth preaching false doctrines; and this they did for the sake of riches and honor. The death sentence is partly to be a deterrent for future crime. Not so in this case...They just made sure they didn't enforce their "teachings" by the sword. So I guess to that degree it worked.
 17 Nevertheless, they durst not lie, These people knew they were lying  if it were known, for fear of the law, for liars were punished; therefore they pretended to preach according to their belief; and now the law could have no power on any man for his belief.  As it should be. We live in a time when they are starting to censure people for their beliefs. Saying it is “misinformation; disinformation; or mal-information” and so people don’t have a right to share it because it’s wrong or harmful in some way. We have to defend the right to free speech no matter which way it leans. But one sure sign you are on the wrong side of the issue is if you get upset with those who disagree with you and want their voice to be silenced. This is a powerful statement of truth by the Supreme Court in a recent case regarding freedom of religion:
"The opportunity to think for ourselves and to express those thoughts freely is among our most cherished liberties and part of what keeps our Republic strong. Of course, abiding the Constitution's commitment to the freedom of speech means all of us will encounter ideas we consider…'misguided, or even hurtful'….But tolerance, not coercion, is our Nation's answer."
 18 And they durst not steal, for fear of the law, for such were punished; neither durst they rob, nor murder, for he that murdered was punished unto death.
 19 But it came to pass that whosoever did not belong to the church of God began to persecute those that did belong to the church of God, and had taken upon them the name of Christ.
 20 Yea, they did persecute them, and afflict them with all manner of words, and this because of their humility; because they were not proud in their own eyes, and because they did impart the word of God, one with another, without money and without price. Seems like the "affliction" part may have been because they did not argue with the persecutors but let them speak.
 21 Now there was a strict law among the people of the church, that there should not any man, belonging to the church, arise and persecute those that did not belong to the church, and that there should be no persecution among themselves.
 22 Nevertheless, there were many among them who began to be proud, and began to contend warmly with their adversaries, even unto blows; yea, they would smite one another with their fists. Warning! You can be right. But if you take to yelling at others and physically fighting with them...you are guilty of pride! 
 23 Now this was in the second year of the reign of Alma, and it was a cause of much affliction to the church; yea, it was the cause of much trial with the church. This could have been really discouraging and frustrating to Alma. Here is the first year he is in charge after a wonderful peaceful reign by King Mosiah. I think he'd be tempted to feel like he was no match for filling King Mosiah's shoes and maybe even wondering if the new form of government was going to work!!
 24 For the hearts of many were hardened, and their names were blotted out, is this coming? that they were remembered no more among the people of God. And also many withdrew themselves from among them. They were “moving or being removed” 
 25 Now this was a great trial to those that did stand fast in the faith; nevertheless, they were steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God, and they bore with patience the persecution which was heaped upon them. How does this look? Did they not speak up to defend truth? Or did they speak up, but just "bear" what came back? If they spoke up, did they do it calmly and without personalizing the attacks? This is coming/here...
 26 And when the priests left their labor to impart the word of God unto the people, the people also left their labors to hear the word of God. And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers, for the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength. This is Zion. All equal. by choice and with love. No force.
 27 And they did impart of their substance, every man according to that which he had, to the poor, and the needy, and the sick, and the afflicted; and they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely. You can dress neatly and nicely without it being costly. Why? Because the excess that makes it “costly” apparel could easily be given to those in need. Just read one though on the use of tithing to help the poor. They said the scriptures don't teach the use of tithing for the poor, but that the poor should be cared for out of our "offerings" which are not dictated as a percentage of income. Did these people pay a tithe in addition to "imparting of their substance" to others? I'll have to study this more...
 28 And thus they did establish the affairs of the church; and thus they began to have continual peace again, notwithstanding all their persecutions. Can you have peace in the middle of persecutions? Yes!
 29 And now, because of the steadiness of the church they began to be exceedingly rich, having abundance of all things whatsoever they stood in need—an abundance of flocks and herds, and fatlings of every kind, and also abundance of grain, and of gold, and of silver, and of precious things, and abundance of silk and fine-twined linen, and all manner of good homely cloth. We have to learn to trust God on this. If you give, humbly, that which is above what you need, God will multiply your gain. You are never in debt because of God or being righteous. 
 30 And thus, in their prosperous circumstances, they did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need. I love that they did not "persecute" back those who were not of the church.
 31 And thus they did prosper and become far more wealthy than those who did not belong to their church.
 32 For those who did not belong to their church did indulge themselves in sorceries, and in idolatry or idleness, and in babblings, and in envyings and strife; I wonder what these things looked like in their day? wearing costly apparel; being lifted up in the pride of their own eyes; persecuting, lying, thieving, robbing, committing whoredoms, and murdering, and all manner of wickedness; nevertheless, the law was put in force upon all those who did transgress it, inasmuch as it was possible. Some people got away with things...
 33 And it came to pass that by thus exercising the law upon them, every man suffering according to that which he had done, they became more still, and durst not commit any wickedness if it were known; therefore, there was much peace among the people of Nephi until the fifth year of the reign of the judges. It is not just having laws that keep peace, but enforcing them. We can see in these past few weeks that if the law is not enforced, people become more bold in their crimes. You have to have honest judges and police for the law to be enforced correctly.