1 Nephi 1:

Nephi is writing a record in the language of the Egyptians. His father was sent to tell the people to repent. He was caught up by the Lord and when he returned home he received a vision. He saw God in heaven and was given a warning for the people of Jerusalem. Lehi praised the Lord for this revelation. Nephi is not making a full account of the vision, but is making an abridgment of his father's record along with his own. The Jews were angry with Lehi's call for repentance and sought his life, but the Lord spared him.

We can learn from this chapter that it is important to write and keep records. People will not always be happy to hear the message which we bring, but it is inspired from heaven and they will suffer if they do not heed.

1 Nephi 2:

Lehi is told in a dream that he must flee into the wilderness. He left all of his possessions and only took what he needed. They traveled down to the Red Sea where they built an altar to thank the Lord. Lehi named several landscape features after his sons. Laman and Lemuel murmur against their father and their speech was confounded. Nephi is faithful and given a promise that his descendants will be blessed, but that Laman and Lemuel's will be cursed.

We can obtain blessings like Nephi did if we remain faithful. If we murmur against the Lord, we will be chastised. We will be given many chances, but in the end we must be faithful. We must do was the Lord commands or our very safety could be in danger.

1 Nephi 3:

Nephi is told that he and his brethren must return to Jerusalem to obtain brass plates which contain scripture and genealogy. It is not a command of their father, but a commandment of God. They went up to Jerusalem and cast lots as to who had to approach Laban. Laman is chased away as a thief and wants to return home. Nephi chastises them saying it is the Lord's will that they stay. They obtained their possessions from home and tried to trade, but Laban just stole it and chased them away. Laman and Lemuel were angry and beat Nephi with a rod, but an angel stopped them but they continued to murmur.

We must realize that sometimes the tasks the Lord assigns are difficult, but we must persevere against all dangers to do the Lord's will. Even if it is hard or we fear for our very lives, the will of God must prevail.

1 Nephi 4:

Nephi says that they must be as Moses as old and that they can overcome great odds Laman and Lemuel still murmur, but they went with Nephi to Jerusalem anyway. As they approached the house, Nephi found Laban asleep and was inspired by the spirit to kill him. After struggling with it for a few minutes, he decapitated him. Nephi realized that it was of great enough importance to obtain the record that he had to do it. He went to the treasury and obtained the plates in disguise. He commanded that the servant follow him and as he exited, his brethren feared but Nephi called them back. Zoram, the servant made a commitment with Nephi and accompanied them. They leave to return to their father.

By persevering and following the will of the Lord, Nephi obtained what he went for. We can do the same. Although he struggled, in the end he followed the Lord's will. Sometimes we will not understand why the Lord commands us to do some things, but we must do them anyway and we will be blessed.

1 Nephi 5:

Their parents were glad to have them return but Sariah complained against Lehi because of her fears. Lehi comforted her and she received word from the spirit to support Lehi. They story was related to Lehi and they did rejoice exceedingly and built and altar unto the Lord. Lehi describes the record and tells of the wealth of genealogy that it contains. The records will be useful to keep their descendants on the right path.

Scriptures and Genealogies are very important records and it is important to keep them available. They can provide a wealth of information and are important to keeping us following the commandments of God.

1 Nephi 6:

Nephi writes that he is a descendant of Joseph, but that his main purpose in this record is to bring people unto the God of Abraham. Nephi is not writing what men want to hear, but what God wants them to hear.

It is important to tell people the truth of the gospel. We should not preach like many religions do to just tell people what they want to hear, but what God wants said.

1 Nephi 7:

Lehi is given a revelation saying that they must take more people into the wilderness with them so that they can produce offspring. Nephi and his brothers are commanded to return again to Jerusalem to enlist Ishmael and his family. Laman and Lemuel again murmur against the Lord and Nephi chastises them. They were angry with him and they bound him up and left him. Nephi is given strength to break the bands and when they set upon him again, the women stop them. They beg forgiveness and are given it. When they return to Lehi, an altar is built for more sacrifices.

Again, we must follow the commands of the Lord. When we are place in times of trial we must place our trust in the Lord and if it is His will He will deliver us. We must always be able to forgive people for their wrongs.

1 Nephi 8:

Lehi has a vision and is happy about Nephi but is fearful for Laman and Lemuel. In his vision, Lehi walks in darkness until he comes upon this scene. A tree above all trees was stationed in the middle but there was a river that ran along it. Lehi finds his family and beckons for them to come. Laman and Lemuel refuse to come to him. He beholds a rod of iron which leads by a fountain unto the tree. A mist arises around those following the rod and many fall away. In the distance stands a large and spacious building filled with people taunting those on the path. Some even after tasting the fruit fall away. Many multitudes follow different paths. Lehi pleads with Laman and Lemuel to follow the commandments of the Lord.

From this vision we can learn about the basic plan of the Lord. If we follow the iron rod (or word of god) then we can reach God's love at the tree. Satan will tempt us with a mist of darkness to keep us from progressing and the world and natural man will tempt us to join those in the great and spacious building. We must grasp tightly to that which we know is right and we will be blessed.

1 Nephi 9:

Nephi is commanded to write two sets of plates. The larger plates contain the secular history of his people and the smaller plates contain the spiritual matters. Nephi does not understand why but follows the commandment.

God knows all things and his knowledge exceeds ours. We must do His will even if we do not understand it because it could have grand and glorious effects in the future. Nephi did not know why he was writing, but we can realize the benefit now.

1 Nephi 10:

After Lehi finished telling of the dream, he began to speak to them about the Jews and their capture by Babylon but that they would be brought back. He also spoke of the redeemer coming 600 years after his family's exodus. He said that Jesus would come and be baptized. He also prophesied of the crucifixion and resurrection. He gave the metaphor of the house of Israel being an olive tree and that they would be spread abroad. Nephi tells us that we must ask of God that which we desire.

We can learn that Jesus was prophesied of long before his mortal incarnation. We know that the people of America had a knowledge of His future coming and that they could be saved from their sins. Likewise we know that he did die for our sins and will return in His glory. The scattered branches are being gathered and we are part of this work. May the grafting of Israel proceed!

1 Nephi 11:

Nephi is desirous to see the same thing which his father saw and the angel gives praise because of this. Nephi is given a witness by the angel. He was shown the vision of the tree of life and then proceeded to view the virgin Mary and the child Jesus. He was told that the love of Christ is what the tree represents. He beheld the rod and then saw Christ minister unto the children of men and the miracles performed. Nephi saw the people take Jesus unto his crucifixion. He then saw the great and spacious building fall, for this is the fate of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people who shall fight against the Lord.

The Lord is omnipotent and nothing can stop His work. He was taken by the people and brutally slain upon a cross yet He rose again. Those who fight Him shall perish in woe for their evils. The Lord came down upon this people to give us His word that we might return unto Him in glory like unto Him. No mortal man can stop the work of God.

1 Nephi 12:

Nephi beheld the land of promise and that wars and rumors of wars abounded in the land. A great calamity struck the land as the earth ruptured and broke. Fires and vapors arose out of its core and covered the land. Christ descended piercing the darkness and ordained 12 who should be his leaders among the children of men. Several generations pass away in righteousness before the Lord. The fountain and filthy river float into Nephi's vision and the mists are revealed to be symbolic of the temptations of the devil. Nephi saw that the distant offspring of his brethren destroyed his seed and fell into abominations.

This land though a land of promise has had a dark and brutal history. The people fell into disbelief and then the Lord came. Their faith was restored and they followed God, but then they began to become wicked. As they lost their faith in God they fell into damnation. Likewise we must follow God and fall not into temptation.

1 Nephi 13:

Nephi's vision progressed to a vision of the gentile nations. Yea, and among the gentiles was formed a great and abominable church before God. The church was interlaced with wickedness but was attractive to the people because of its lustful lure. Many gentiles were led by God from their homeland to the land of promise to punish the seed of Laman. The mother country did gather a force against them but by the power of God was defeated. Behold, a record of the Jews shall proceed with them and they shall read it faithfully. But yea, the great and abominable church shall take this book and from it remove many plain and precious truths. Nevertheless, they were not sent to destroy nor to remain in ignorance of God's word. Though the seed of his brethren shall be smitten, the gospel would be revealed and taught unto them. Many other books also he beheld which shall bring unto man the fullness of the Lord's gospel. To the gentiles first and then to the Jew shall His word be taken.

We can see that Nephi was given by divine inspiration a vision of the formation of our country. The gospel has been revealed unto our people and to the Lamanites it is taken. We must continue in God's will that all may hear His word that we lose no more souls than those that do not hearken to the will of God. For we must vanquish the ignorance of this Land that they may come to know God

1 Nephi 14:

If the gentiles shall hearken unto the will of the Lord, their stumbling blocks will be removed. And they shall be led away from that pit which is hell that the great and abominable church hath dug. But wo unto those that do not repent, for the time cometh that the Lord shall work a great work among the children of men which shall lead unto their salvation or to their damnation. And it shall come to pass that the great and abominable church shall gather a host together against the church of the Lamb but the wrath of God shall be upon those who fight against Him. And there shall be wars and rumours of wars, but yea, another shall write of these things. One called John of the Jews who served Jesus. And he shall write of a great many things including the end of the world. And Nephi is forbidden to write more and bears testimony.

There shall come a day when one must make a stand and he that does not follow God shall fall. The church of God will be small, but the wrath of God is on their side. To this end, we must each make a decision to whom we will pay homage to. If it be God then the end shall be well, but He who does not shall be smitten with the wrath of God.

1 Nephi 15:

After the close of the vision, Nephi returned to the tent of his father. His brethren were disputing for they did not comprehend their father's vision, but upon Nephi lay the greater weight, for he had seen the fall of his people. Nephi inquires whether his brethren have inquired of the Lord, but they had not. Nephi chastises the hardness of their hearts and begins to prophesy unto them. He tells them that their seed shall come to know their heritage and shall come to a knowledge of God. He explains to them the meaning of Lehi's vision of the olive tree. For there shall be a restoration of many truths unto man. Nephi explains unto them the meaning of the vision of the tree of life and the interpretations of the symbolism.

When in doubt we should inquire of the Lord, for the Lord knoweth all things. We must not harden our hearts of the word of God cannot reach us. God can give us answers to things we do not understand and we must listen to the prophets for they are the mouthpiece of God and can give us the knowledge we seek.

1 Nephi 16:

The guilty take the truth to be hard and Laman and Lemuel are no exception. Nephi exhorted to his brethren that they keep the commandments of God and for a time they did humble themselves insomuch that Nephi had hope for them. Nephi, his brethren, and Zoram take unto wife daughter's of Ishmael. Lehi is commanded to journey into the wilderness and discovers a ball of curious workmanship. And it did come to pass that they followed the directions given by this compass. They traveled for many nights obtaining food as needed through hunting. After many days of traveling, Nephi's bow broke and they went without food. The party began to murmur and complain, but behold, Nephi did make of wood a new bow, but knew not where to go. Lehi is chastened and told that to look to the ball and saw that it only worked according to their faith and he did fear. And it came to pass that Nephi, being directed of the Lord, did journey into the mountain where he did obtain many beasts for food. Ishmael dies in a place called Nahom. The children of Ishmael did murmur and Laman and Lemuel plotted to kill Nephi and Lehi. But behold, the voice of the Lord did chasten them that they did repent of their sins.

While in sin, the truth will be hard. We must stay in the light of the Lord for it is hard to reenter this path. Our ability to follow the word of God, like the compass, is dependent upon our faith. We must follow God and have faith that He will lead us and to this end we may live in the path of righteousness. For inasmuch as we follow the will of the Lord we shall know that which we should do.

1 Nephi 17:

The party traveled for a long time in the wilderness insomuch that they did bear children and much affliction. For eight years they wandered in the wilderness at which time the Lord brought them to the seashore. Nephi went into the mountain where he was commanded that he should construct a ship after the manner that the Lord should provide. The Lord promised to guide them through the wilderness and Nephi's faith was full. Nephi's brethren did not feel that he could build a ship and this caused him great sadness. They began to taunt him for his faith and feel that Nephi and Lehi were delusional. Nephi reminds them of the exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt and the promises made and fulfilled. He told them that the people of Jerusalem were an evil people and that it was the will of the Lord that they be taken away. God rewards those who are good and destroys those who are not. And he doth lead away the righteous from amongst the wicked that they may be preserved. Like unto Moses, Lehi and his family were led out of evil that they might be saved. The brethren of Nephi are quick to sin, but slow to repent. They have had witness of God's power yet they deny it. Nephi is filled with anguish because of his brethren. Nephi testified that what he was doing was the will of the Lord. To give them a sign, Nephi was given the power to shock them with his hand and they confessed the Lord their God.

We must always follow God. If we fall into sin we must be quick to repent. We must have faith in what the Lord commands even if it does not seem possible, for through the Lord all things can be done. We must not be seekers of signs for therein faith is not whole. Though God has been revealed we are quick to forget him. We must rely on faith that the Lord is God and that he will do what is best for us.

1 Nephi 18:

Nephi is able to get the cooperation of his brethren and finish the ship. Nephi goes to the lord often for guidance. They stock the ship and set sail. After a few days, the daughters of Ishmael and Laman and Lemuel start to party and lose sight of the Lord. Nephi chastises them and is bound by Laman and Lemuel. Because of this the compass ceases to function. A great storm arose and nearly swallowed the ship. Because of fear, Nephi was released. Though sore, he was grateful. Curses are pronounced on the seed of Laman and Lemuel and the others grieve. They arrive at the promised land and begin to farm and gather.

We should learn to always follow and obey the Lord. When we do not do his will, he will cease to guide us and we will feel lost in the storm of Satan. We can repent though and we can be blessed and come to a metaphorical promised land for ourselves.

1 Nephi 19:

Nephi is commanded to make a record upon plates of ore. When he made the original plates he didn't know he would also be commanded to make these plates. He was commanded to write the sacred record of his people on this record. Nephi prophesies messianically. Nephi prophesies that Christ is the God of the Old Testament. Nephi also mentions several other prophets that are not mentioned in the Bible. The Jews shall be punished for rejecting Christ. Nephi mentions the words of Isaiah.

It is important to keep records even if we do not know the purpose at the time. Nephi did not know why he was keeping the record, but he did as the Lord told him and it blesses us today. Nephi shows us that they knew about the Lord even in 600BC and they had faith and since we know he has already come, we should have more faith.

1 Nephi 20:

A large quotation from Isaiah 48 is included after which the Lord addresses Jacob. The Lord has chosen people among the Israelites. The Israelites shall proceed forth from Babylon.

If we have faith in the Lord we will be delivered from all afflictions.

1 Nephi 21:

Though the Gentiles be scattered and lost of faith, the Messiah shall come and be a light unto them. He will provide them with the word of God that they are no longer held bound by their sins. The Jews shall return in might to their land in Israel. All people will know that the Lord is God.

We should always look toward the savior as he is a light unto us. We know that the Jews have returned as a mighty military nation to Israel. We have yet to reach the day in which all recognize the Lord, but we must be prepared as that day cannot be far off.

1 Nephi 22:

The people of Israel will be scattered all over the world because of their iniquity. The gentiles shall receive the gospel and a great and mighty nation will be raised by them in the latter days. They shall take the gospel unto the Jews and help to gather them back to Israel. The great and abominable church will gather all the world together to fight against Israel, but the abominable church will fall to the dust. The time when the Lord will pour out his wrath upon evil and fulfill the prophesies of Moses will come soon. Those who repent and follow the Lord will be safe, but those who do not are damned.

If we desire to be saved in the last day we must follow the teachings of God. We must help to gather the children of Israel back to their homeland and to bring the gospel of Christ unto them. If we do not repent, we will be among those burned at the last day and I sure don't want that.

2 Nephi 1:

Lehi tells Laman and Lemuel of their rebellions yet reminds them that God saved them at sea. He also mentions that he has seen in vision that Jerusalem was destroyed. He tells that the promised land is choice above all other lands and that noone shall go to it unless the Lord leads them there. The land shall be a land of liberty as long as the people are righteous, but if they turn from God, they will fall. Lehi encourages his sons that they may be righteous that they may be in the favor of God and have a great nation before Him. Lehi fears for Laman and Lemuel and tells them that if they do not follow Nephi then their blessing shall be removed to be given to Nephi. Nephi and Zoram are righteous.

We must remember especially in this time of need that we must be righteous and look to God. We know that our land is a land of freedoms, though if we are evil we shall fall. We need to look to God instead of making stupid legislation which limits our freedoms. If we follow God then we will be blessed, but if not, His wrath is upon us.

2 Nephi 2:

Lehi speaks to Jacob. Jacob is faithful and has seen the glory of the Lord in his youth. Redemption comes only through Christ. It is necessary to have an opposition in all things. For if one does not know evil and sorrow, how can one know good and joy. If free agency did not exist, God would cease to exist. Satan is a fallen angel who desires that all be made miserable like unto himself. If Adam had not transgressed, they would have remained in the garden and the plan could not come to pass. Christ will come to redeem mankind from the fall. Men are free to choose eternal life or damnation through their choices to follow God or not.

We know that free agency is a true principle of God and that it is our responsibility to use it wisely. For us to know joy we must suffer and know pain. We can only know joy to the extent that we know pain. We must trust in Christ that he will save us from our sins and our pain that we may have eternal life if that is what we desire.

2 Nephi 3:

Lehi speaks to Joseph. Joseph of Egypt saw the day of Lehi and their departing from Jerusalem. Joseph of Egypt prophesied of another Joseph that would be raised in the latter days to restore the gospel. He would raise a book from the dust that would contain the words of Lehi's people. Joseph's seed shall be raised up in multitudes and Joseph will be faithful.

We know that Joseph Smith was the person being spoken of in this text. He raised up the Book of Mormon, a record of Lehi's people, for us to learn from. He restored the gospel to the gentiles so that we may be brought unto salvation.

Unable to locate summary for chapter 4.

2 Nephi 5:

Laman and Lemuel feel that Nephi is trying to rule over them and they determine that they should kill him. Nephi took all of those that would go with him and fled into the wilderness. They were called the People of Nephi and they prospered in the land. Nephi had taken the plates and the compass. He began to make swords after the manner of the sword of Laban to protect his people. They built a temple after the fashion of Solomon?s temple. Those not among the people of Nephi were cursed and given a mark of dark skin. Jacob and Joseph are ordained Priests and Teachers. Nephi is commanded to make records. Wars between the Nephites and Lamanites begin.

We must remain righteous to stay in the presence of God. The Lamanites were not and they were cast out. If we remain righteous, the Lord will protect and prosper us in spite of the environment in which we are placed.

2 Nephi 6:

Jacob speaks unto the people under the command of Nephi. He quotes from Isaiah in describing the history of the Jews. He recounts the capture and return of the Jews by Babylon. He continues to describe that the Lord should come in the flesh to preach and that he would be lifted up and crucified. Blessed are the gentiles who believe in Christ for he will come a second time to save them. Those that do not believe will perish.

We must learn from the flaws of the people of the past. We must accept Christ as our saviour and follow his teachings. Though the Jews persecuted Him, He will come again in the second coming to save us all. If we do not believe, we will be punished.

2 Nephi 7:

Continuing to quote from Isaiah, Jacob recounts messianic prophesies. Jesus will allow himself to be tortured and smitten. Jesus shall condemn them with his words. Those that speak against him shall be punished.

Again we see that old testament prophets knew about Christ and His teachings. We must learn from this example and follow the words of Christ that we might be saved in the last day.

2 Nephi 8:

In the last days, the Lord will gather Israel back together and comfort Zion in her oppression.

Have the people forgotten their Lord? The Lord continues to brag with all of these great things about himself. In the end, those who come unto God shall have joy when Jerusalem is purified.

We must not forget the Lord for if we believe in him through all of our trials we shall have great joy in the end. We must trust in the Lord and he will comfort us in our trials.

2 Nephi 9:

The Jews shall return to the land of their inheritance. By suffering the atonement, Christ made it possible for all of us to be redeemed from the fall. This provides the means for the ressurection. God is good that he prepares a way for us to escape death and hell. We shall have a perfect knowledge of all of our sins. When we die, we are judged. Nephi continues to glorify in the wisdom of God. Many who are learned will turn from God. Many shall do things contrary to the will of God and shall perish. We should repent and glory in God.

We must always remember that the plan of the father is great and that through it only may be we saved in the kingdom of heaven. We must repent because after death we will be judged and have a perfect knowledge of that which we have done. If we sin we will be punished, but if we are righteous we will be glorified.

2 Nephi 10:

It is necessary that Christ come and be crucified to fulfill the atonement. He had to come down among the Jews because no other nation would crucify their God. The Jews will be scattered and be gathered again only when they begin to believe in Him. America will have no kings and will be a land of liberty for the gentiles. Any nation that rises against it will perish. America is consecrated unto the seed of Nephi. We are free to choose everlasting death or everlasting life. Through the atonement we may be forgiven.

We must remember that the land we live in is a choice land and that it is a land of the free. As long as we are righteous our nation will be protected against her foes. We must choose our fate but remember that we can be saved through the atonement.

2 Nephi 11:

Nephi and Jacob have both seen Christ. The law of Moses was given to prepare for the coming of Christ. Nephi glories in the convenants of God. The people must come unto Christ or else they perish.

Christ is what the entire plan revolves around. If we do not come unto and through Him, all is lost and we cannot be saved.

2 Nephi 12:

In the mountains a temple of the Lord will be built and all nations shall flow unto it. In the end there will be a judgement among the children of men. Jerusalem is laden in gold and finery and all manner of wickedness. All high things shall be brought low. The idol-worshipers shall hide in the caves.

A latter day temple has been established in the mountains of the west. This is what Isaiah prophesied about. We now have people from all over the world joining the church and making pilgrimages unto Salt Lake. In the end the proud and wicked shall fall to humble circumstances. Let us not be among them.

2 Nephi 13:

Times of trial shall come because of the punishment sent by God to Judah and Jerusalem and people will be unable to help each other. The Lord will plead for His people but he will also judge them and punish the wicked. Those who are worldly will be cursed and have their possessions taken from them.

We must learn to follow the will of God and not to seek worldly things, for in the end, if this is all that matters to us, we will lose it.

2 Nephi 14:

The daughters of Zion shall ask forgiveness and the world will be cleansed. All that are left shall be holy. When the evil has been washed from the earth, tabernacles will be built to shield us.

We must always beg forgiveness that we may be among this number. When we are cleansed we may find safety in the temple.

2 Nephi 15:

The Lord builds a nice vineyard and when he expects to have good fruits, he is greeted with wild grapes. The wall shall be destroyed that thorns may enter. The house of Israel shall be scattered like this vineyard and their cities shall be desolate. The people will be taken into captivity and then humbled. Wo unto those who justify wickedness. The anger of the Lord shall destroy them. An ensign shall be raised and all nations shall flow unto it.

We must always follow the will of the Lord and not even tempt ourselves with evil. We must repent of what we do wrong and not seek to justify it unless we like entertaining the idea of being rotted and burned.

2 Nephi 16:

In the year that King Uzziah died, Isaiah saw the Lord upon his thrown. An angel puts coal in Isaiah's mouth and he is forgiven of his sins. Isaiah is called on to preach to the people about the coming of Christ and how they will not recognize Him. Only a tenth of them shall return.

We know that Jesus has come and that, as Isaiah prophesied, they did reject the teachings of Christ. May we not be so misfortunate as to miss our chance and be damned for not following Him.

2 Nephi 17:

Ephraim and Syria shall be in confederation and go in war against Judah.Isaiah is told that the alliance will not stand for Ephraim shall be scattered. Christ shall be born of a virgin, but before that can come Assyria will conquer them. They shall have a time of peace and prosperity and then they shall be conquered again.

We know even if the Jews don't realize it that Christ was prophesied of even in the Old Testament by Isaiah. We must remember this remarkable messianic prophesy and never forget the Lord our God.

2 Nephi 18:

Isaiah is warned that destruction is imminent through an analogy. Assyria shall pass through Judah and conquer. The Lord shall come hard in the sides of some. They will find His teachings hard or offensive to them. But it is to Him that we must direct our desire for guidance and not to wizards.

Even in our day, we must remember that the end is relativly soon and that we must always prepare. We must keep our eyes single to the glory of God and not resort to sorcery or psychics for guidance. Even though the word of the Lord is hard, we must not falter, but remain steadfast.

2 Nephi 19:

Amongst all of the darkness, the people shall see a light. Those that find the light shall have joy. The Lord shall be born unto the people of Judah. The people shall not seek the Lord though. Therefore the Lord will cut off the people of Israel and they Lord shall have no joy in them. The wrath of the Lord shall be against Judah and Ephraim and Manassah shall join together against Judah.

In these times also is Christ a light unto our people. In the darkness of this world he stands as the only steady light that we may look unto. If we find Him we may find joy but if not we shall suffer in darkness.

2 Nephi 20:

Just as Assyria was destroyed for her wickedness, as such shall wickedness be destroyed in the second coming of Christ. Israel shall be burned and purified yet purged of wickedness. In the end few shall be left because of the wickedness in the land. To the Israelites, they must not fear their oppression under Assyria for though it be like Egypt it shall only be for a small moment before Assyria is destroyed.

We must prepare for the second coming. We may feel as if we are under oppression because of the evil in the world, but we must endure it well, for the Lord will come to lift this evil burden from us that we may rejoice in His glory for in the end shall wickedness all fall.

2 Nephi 21:

Christ shall judge the people righteously. And all shall be good that one creature may lie with another where in another time they would be in danger. The Lord shall again gather Israel. He will set up an ensign that they may be gathered from all corners of the earth. A way shall be provided for their return.

We must always do what is right but realize that the Lord will judge us righteously. There shall come a time of peace in which we may rejoice. We must realize that we must help the Lord in His gathering of the Jews.

2 Nephi 22:

The day will come that all will praise the Lord. We shall all praise Him and exalt His name. He shall dwell with man and be glorified through them.

We may either look forward to this day or we may dread it. For it will mean a forfeit of our rights and submission to the eternal one, but cannot we find joy in the praising of another, especially of a God?

2 Nephi 23:

The fall of evil in the end is compared with the fall of Babylon of old. There shall be great destruction and all wickedness shall fall. The world shall be punished for her iniquity. It shall be like when God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. The beasts of the earth shall cry as they dwell in places now uninhabited of man.

If we are evil in the end, we are dumb. The wicked will be destroyed in all kinds of gross ways that Isaiah talks about and I know that I don't want that to happen to me if for that reason only. For the fall of the wicked shall be great and I do not desire to be among it.

Unable to locate summaries for chapters 24-32. Verify to see if you have them.

2 Nephi 33:

Nephi claims that he is telling the truth. Many will cast his words aside, but he prays for them. Nephi is happy for everyone it seems. Those who believe in Christ should believe in Nephi's words. Nephi hopes that many will be saved and he seals things in heaven.

We should pray to the father to know whether Nephi's words really are the words of Christ. Nephi tells us that we should pray to know whether it is of Christ or not.

Jacob 1:

Nephi commands Jacob to continue writing on the small plates. Jacob labors among the people and wishes all would come unto Christ. Nephi gets old and dies but appoints a new king first. The nephites begin to sin and gain many wives.

We should do what Jacob wants for us and come unto God. Jacob says we should not argue with God, but I personally think that it is a good way to learn. Jacob says we should not anger God, but I don't think God should get angry, but should help us learn

Jacob 2:

Jacob prepares to declare the word of God. It hurts Jacob that the people are so sinful. The people should seek for the kingdom of God before they seek for gold and riches. The people are full of pride and must humble themselves. The people have been unrighterously taking multiple wives. Jacob tells them that they have done worse sins that the lamanites.

We must always be humble so that we can listen to God. If we desire worldly success, we must first devote ourselves to the service of God and if and only if it is his will may we have the success we desire. We must not practice any principle unrighteously.

Jacob 3:

The pure in heart will receive comfort of God. God will deal justly with them. Those who are not are cursed. The lamanites are more righteous than the nephites and the nephites are threatened. One day the lamanites will be good and Jacob fears that they will be far more pure than the nephites. Jacob warns the nephites against sin.

We should have a pure heart, for those who have a pure heart are blessed, and the rest of us are damned. We need to be humble and avoid sins or our very enemies may become more righteous than we are.

Jacob 4:

The records are very important so that we can remember these people. All of the earlier prophets believed in and worshipped Christ. It is impossible to know all of the works of God. We must only have faith in him to be saved. The Jews were stiffnecked and did not follow the words of the prophets. Jacobis led by the spirit to establish a righteous foundation.

We must always read our scriptures so that we may know of ancient truths. We must realize that God will not let us know all things and so we must accept uncertainty and believe with no evidence. We must not be like the Jews that did not obey the words of the prophets.

Jacob 5:

Jacobrefers to a prophecy by Zenos about the tame and wile olive tree. The tame branches are Israel and the wild branches are the gentiles. Their is a symbolic scattering of the branches showing the scattering of Israel. Gentile branches are grafted into the tree. In the end, all will be burned and purified before the Lord.

This is the well known prophecy yet again of the olive tree showing the scattering of Israel and the eventual gathering and spreading of the gospel to all the world. We must do our part to further this work.

Jacob 6:

The Lord shall put forth his hand to gather Israel a second time. Those who labour diligently are blessed yet those who don't are cursed. We should repent for the day of judgement will come when we will regret our sins. If we do not follow christ we will be damned to hell.

We must be sure to follow christ unless the feeling of fire appeals to us. We must labour hard and not be slothful so that the Lord will bless us. When we do mess up, we must repent of our sins.

Jacob 7:

A man named Sherem came and spoke convincingly to the people that there was no Christ. He was very charismatic and a good speaker. Sherem desired to make Jacob stop believing in Christ. He argued that they should follow the Law of Moses alone. Jacob responded that the Law of Moses was about Christ. Sherem wanted a sign. Sherem was struck down and confessed his lies and confessed a belief in Christ. After his confession he died. The people were afraid and began to hearken unto Jacob's words. They tried to convert the lamanites, but the lamanites delighted in war. Jacob got old and passed the plates on to Enos.

We must keep our faith in Christ for all things point to Him. We do not need to have a sign but must have a steadfast faith in Christ. Those who demand signs shall be punished though most of the time not to this extreme.

Enos:

Enos prays mightilly before the Lord and is forgiven his sins. He believes that God cannot lie and so he's pretty sure of himself.Enos prayed for a long time for the welfare of both the Nephites and the Lamanites. Enos prayed for the records to be preserved and was told that they would be brought to the lamanites in due time. Enos preached to the people of Nephi and the Nephite nation tried to preach the gospel to the Lamanites but they would not accept it and tried to kill the Nephites. The Nephites were a prosperous nation with farming and many prophets but the people were stiffnecked. Only prophesies of war and war itself kept the people believing. Enos gives his last words as he prepares to die.

We too must pray mightilly before the Lord if we are to receive answers. Answers do not come easilly, but once you have the Lord talking he'll keep talking and tell you all kinds of stuff. The people must keep faith in God or else catastrophic events such as war will be used to make them keep their faith.

Jarom:

Jarom, son of Enos, writes upon the small plates for the benefit of the Lamanites. Both the Nephite and Lamanite nations waxed strong in the land. The Nephite nation was righteous and the Lamanite nation revelled in murder and iniquities. The Lord was with the Nephite nation and they developed weapons of war and strong leaders so they could hold off every Lamanite attack. The Nephites are warned that they must stay righteous or be destroyed. The plates are small so you have to go to the large plates for a better record of the wars. The plates are passed to Omni.

As long as you stay righteous you will be protected and kept strong by the Lord.You will be protected from your adversaries which in our case is sin and temptation. If we do not keep our righteousness then we will fall and be unprotected.

Omni:

The record is passed through family lines, each writer having seen much war and contention between the Nephite and Lamanite nations. Wicked Nephites are destroyed in such battles. Mosiah is given inspiration to flee with his people from the land of Nephi because of impending danger. They find the people of Zarahemla in the land of Zarahemla. These people had fled also from Jerusalem at the time of Zedekiah and had since corrupted their language and denied their creator. Mosiah taught them his language and interprets a stone containing the record of Coriantumr. After Mosiah's death, his son Benjamin is set as king. Amaleki, growing old and having no seed, confers the plates on Benjamin. Amaleki bears testimony of Christ. A short story of Nephites who tried to return to the Land of Nephi is told in which of the many that went, only fifty survived and returned.

We must listen to inspiration as Mosiah did if it is given us. We must keep our testimony of Christ and always listen to his teachings instead of being stiffnecked.

Words of Mormon:

Mormon interjects his comments into the record. He is about to pass the records on to his son Moroni and he has seen nearly the utter destruction of his people. Mormon is desirous to include more from the small plates concerning the prophets and their prophecies. He is pleased with the records and is inspired by the Lord to include them. The plates have been handed down from King Benjamin until they reached Mormon. He hopes that they will be preserved after his time too.King Benjamin was a powerful and holy man. He drove the Lamanites out of the land and silenced all false christs which came up among his people.

We must be grateful to Mormon for the inclusion of the small plates as they provide for us many prophecies of Christ and of his people. We must seek to be like Benjamin and always strive for righteousness. We must drive evil from among us and protect the gospel of Christ.

Mosiah 1:

Benjamin's reign is marked with righteousness among the people. He has three sons whom he instructs in the ways of God. He reminds them of the importance of the records in preserving the word of God among the people. King Benjamin bears his testimony to his sons and realizing that he is growing old decides to pass on both the crown and the records and artifacts on to his son Mosiah. Mosiah is warned to keep the people in righteousness so that they do not fall victim to the Lamanites.

We must realize the importance of the scriptural records which we have and how they preserve the word of God for us. We must continue in righteousness and preach that which we know unto others. We must seek to keep our fellow man a believer save he shall be destroyed by the wiles of Satan.

Mosiah 2:

King Benjamin gathered the people up from all the land to speak to them. The people came up, performed sacrifices, and set up tents facing Benjamin. A tower was built so that all could hear him. Benjamin humbly tells of the happenings during his reign. Benjamin talks about service and encourages the people to serve others like he has done. God requires that we do as he commands. Benjamin declares Mosiah to be king. Benjamin warns the people of sin and the consequences thereof. He also tells them the reward of the righteous.

We should look to King Benjamin as an example and follow his example of service and love.God's commandments are an ultimatum. If we do not follow them we shall be damned, but if we do we will have an eternal reward in heaven.

Mosiah 3:

An angel came unto Benjamin the night before with instructions. The angel tells Benjamin of the works of Christ who is soon at hand to come. He tells him of the everlasting atonement of Christ. The natural man is an enemy to God. Those who do not humble themselves as a little child shall drink of damnation.

We should humble ourselves before God and become weak and submissive. If we do not then God will condemn us. In our natural state we are fallen and so we must come unto God and obey his words.

Mosiah 4:

At first the people were afraid because of these words but the spirit of the Lord came upon them for a forgiveness of their sins. Man receives salvation through the atonement of Christ. We should believe in the awesome power and wisdom of God. We should call upon the Lord daily for a forgiveness of our sins. We should care and take care of others that they need not suffer. We are all beggars and should not judge one another. If you condemn one man your condemnation is greater. We should care for the poor where we can and where we cannot we should be willing if we had the means. There are many ways to commit sin and we should ever be wary of them that we may avoid them.

We should realize that we are sinfull and need the atonement to purify us. The atonement is the only way through which we may obtain forgiveness of our sins. We should realize the power of God and not question it like I do. We should realize that no matter how strong our worldly possessions we are all beggars. When we see those in need we should help them out. We must avoid sin at all costs and be careful to see all its many forms.

Mosiah 5:

Benjamin sent word out and found that the people did believe his words. They wanted to do good continually and not be tormented by hell. Benjamin annointed them the children of christ. He told them that they should be steadfast and immovable in Christ.

We should, like the people of Benjamin, seek to always do good. The everlasting damnation that is the other option does not seem too appealing to anyone. We must take upon ourselves the name of Christ and no other name. We must be determined and keep our righteous ways.

Mosiah 6:

Benjamin took a census of the people and all but the small children came into the fold of God. Benjamin annoints his son Mosiah as king and appointed priests to teach the people. King Benjamin lived three more years and then died. Mosiah had the people farm the earth and he himself participated to keep from being a burden to the people.

Like Mosiah, we should seek to not be a burden on other people. We should seek always to lighten their load and do what we can, especially when in a position of leadership. To be a truly Christlike leader we must serve the people as Christ did.

Mosiah 7:

Mosiah was desirous to know what happened to the people that went to the land of Lehi-Nephi. A group of 16 men led by one Ammon was sent to inquire after them. They were captured and imprisoned until they could be brought before King Limhi. Ammon told his mission to Limhi. Limhi rejoiced in their coming and told them that his people were under bondage by the Lamanites. He tells the history of how his people were brought into bondage and of their abominations. He tells of how a prophet came into the land but was slain and that this was the Lord's punishment for their iniquities.

If we sin then we are likewise put into bondage but we are bound to Satan. We are given warnings by God's messengers and if we do not follow them we will be condemned but the Lord always looks out for his children and will in time provide a way for them to escape their bondage.

Mosiah 8:

Ammon teaches the people of Limhi what has happened in Zarahemla including the teachings of Benjamin and is in turn allowed to read plates of the happenings in this land. Limhi tells of a mission of 43 men sent to appeal to Zarahemla for aid who instead found a land of bones, beasts, and ruins. The mission returned with 24 plates of goldalong with other artifacts of the vanished civilization. Ammon says that the king of the land of Zarahemla is a seer and can translate them. A seer is greater than a prophet but is also a prophet.

We must always look to our leaders who are prophets, seers, and revelators. They can give us God's word so that we can know what to follow.

Mosiah 9:

Zeniff along with a group is sent as a spy to the Lamanites so that they may be destroyed but he, seeing good among them, is desirous that they should make a treaty instead. This caused contention among the group and they erupted into battle killing each other. Only a few were left to return to Zarahemla to tell the story. Zeniff, being over-zealous to posses the land of Lehi-Nephi led another party to that area. He made a contract with the king of the Lamanites which allowed them to posses the land of Nephi and the land of Shilom. King Laman stirred up his people to take from the prosperity of the Nephites in the land. The Nephites rebelled and the battles were great.

We must be careful how we consort with evil as thought its intentions may appear to be good it only desires to bring us into bondage and damnation. We must keep true to the Lord and he will bless us and help us to withstand this captivity.

Mosiah 10:

King Zeniff set up guards to defend his land. King Laman dies and his son reigns in his stead and again seeks battle against the Nephites. Zeniff's people were well armed and supported by the lord. The lamanites knew not the lord and depended on their own strength. The lamanites were bitter with false traditions and felt that the Nephites had robbed them of the records. Zeniff's forces were successful against the lamanites. Growing old, Zeniff confers the crown upon one of his sons.

We must always depend on the strength of God if we are to prevail against wickedness. If we trust in the Lord and are faithful to him he will help us when we are in need. Those who do not have the strength of the Lord will revel in their physical strength but in the end fall.

Mosiah 11:

Noah is appointed king after his father. Noah had many wives and concubines and led the people into iniquity. Noah established taxes over the land to support his family and his priests. Noah built many fine and ornate buildings at the expense of the people and led them into idolatry. Noah's people became drunken and full of iniquity. The lamanites began raids on the nephites killing their flocks and their guards. For a time they were driven back and the prideful people of Noah did rejoice. Abinidi came from among them and began to prophecy their destruction if they did not humble themselves and come unto God. Noah commanded that Abinidi be brought before him that he might be slain.

We must keep ourselves humble and look always to the Lord. We should always support each other and not be a burden on others for our own prideful desires. We should not take pride in ourselves, but pride ourselves in God that he has protected us. When we fall into iniquity a voice from among us will be sent to warn us that we might repent but evil will try to smother this voice.

Mosiah 12:

Abinidi comes to the people in disguise and prophecies of the suffering that they will endure if they do not repent. The people were angry and siezed him that they might take him to King Noah. They tell Noah all about how Abinidi insulted him. Noah has him cast into prison while he and his priests consort. They bring him before them and try to trick him but he answers boldly. Abinidi accuses them of teaching the people false doctrines. Abinidi continues to accuse them calling them hypocrites and condemning their wickedness.

We must be sure not to be hypocrites like those priests of Noah. We must not only teach righteous principles but also follow them ourselves unwavering. The Lord has given commandments unto his people and we are to obey them lest we should be condemned.

Mosiah 13:

The priests are told to sieze Abinidi but are unable to do so because he is protected by God until his message is delivered. Abinidi tells them that whatsoever they do to him is a shadow of what is to come. Abinidi teaches them the 10 commandments and tells them that they are not keeping them. He prophecies that there will be a greater law but until then the law of Moses was there for the stiffnecked people. Abinidi prophesies and reminds the people of the impending coming of Christ.

God's word will not be stopped. He will protect his messenger until the message is delivered. Likewise we need not fear when preaching the gospel of Christ for we will be protected that the Lord's work is not stopped. We now live the greater law and must be humble and not stiffnecked as were the children of Israel.

Mosiah 14:

Abinidi quotes from Isaiah. The Lord would come among the people and be made to suffer at their hand and then be wounded for their transgressions. He would live a guiltless life and be slain by them. He would make an intercession for their sins.

We must always remember the life and death of Christ and all that he has done for the children of men. We must remember that he suffered for our sins but was humble. He was slain by the very people he sought to serve. Let us do not likewise.

Mosiah 15:

Abinidi explains how Christ is both the father and the son. Christ would be brought down to do the will of the father and break the bands of death. Those who have heard the words of the prophets obeyed them are the heirs to the kingdom of god and are the seed of Christ. Christ shall be a proclaimer of peace and would bring the ressurection for all. Many of those who died before the coming of Christ would be ressurrected. Those who rebel against God and die in their sins are not redeemed. There shall be a time in which the gospel of the lord would be proclaimed in every land.

We must be a proclaimer of peace like unto Christ that we may be counted among his seed. We should not rebel against God unless we wish to be exempt from Christ's holy atonement. I guess I'd better humble myself and learn to trust God or else I'm in trouble.

Mosiah 16:

There shall come a day when all shall see the truth of God. The wicked will be cast out with great lamentation. Without the atonement of Christ all men would be fallen and cast out of the presence of God. Those who do not repent are kept in their fallen state and cast out. Christ is the eternal light. If we remain in our carnal state we shall suffer eternal damnation from the devil but if we be good we will have eternal reward. Abinidi encourages the priests that if they teach the law of Moses they should also teach that it is a type of things to come and to teach the redemption through Christ.

We are all fallen and cannot come unto God but through the redemption of Christ. We must reject our carnal desires and follow the word of God lest we stay in our fallen state and be damned. We must follow the will of God and forsake our own or be punished like unto Lucifer.

Mosiah 17:

Noah commanded that Abinidi be put to death but Alma, a young priest, believed him and argued that he should be saved. Alma was cast out of the court and chased that he might be slain. He hid that he might write the words of Abinidi. Abinidi is condemned for saying that God would come down among the children of men and is told that unless he recalls his words he will be put to death. Abinidi said that his blood would stand as a witness against them in the last day. Noah, being afraid, almost released him but his priests prevailed and stirred up the king again unto anger. Abinidi was bound and beated almost to death. As the flames began to burn him he cursed Noah and his seed with fire, disease, and oppression. He prophesied that Noah would suffer death by fire.

Even in the midst of evil, we must stand for truth and even though our very lives be challenged we must do what is right. Those who fight against God and persecute his servants that be cursed of God and shall be brought to suffer for their iniquities.

Mosiah 18:

Alma repented of his sins and began to secretly teach the words of Abinidi to the people. He retired to a place called the waters of Mormon and began to preach of Christ there. Many people desired to come unto the fold and were baptized in symbolism of their covenant with God. Alma called upon God and baptized both himself and Helam. He continued to baptize likewise but did not baptize himself. 204 people were baptized that day. Alma organized the church of Christ and ordained priests to teach the people. Alma reinstituted the sabbath and commanded that the priests did not depend on the people but worked to support themselves. Alma instituted the law of consecration that there would be no poor. The king heard of the movement and sent an army to destroy them but they fled into the wilderness.

We should believe the words of God like Alma did. We need to be baptized and make covenants with God. We must keep the sabbath day holy to worship the Lord. We should work to institute the law of consecration in our own lives and that of others. If we are true to the faith, God will protect us even when the armies of Satan seek to destroy us.

Mosiah 19:

Dissention began to arise among the people against the king. A strong man named Gideon swore to kill the king. Gideon was about to slay him when Noah cried to be spared for the Lamanites were upon them. Gideon spared him and Noah and his people began to flee but were pursued by the Lamanites. Many left their wives and children behind but some stayed and pleaded with the Lamanites. The Lamanites spared them under the agreement that they would deliver up King Noah and pay tribute. The people that had fled with Noah declared that if those that had tarried were slain they would seek revenge. Noah commanded them not to return so they burned him. Gideon found the people and told the story to the king of the Lamanites and he promissed not to slay them. King Limhi established peace among the people but lamanite guards were put in place to keep the people from fleeing.

Good will always find a way to fight against evil. Evil will try to escape but in the end the good nature of men will destroy it. If we sin we will still be punished for our sins. We should hold true to that which we care about and not cling to wickedness.

Mosiah 20:

The priests of Noah were fearful to return to the land of Nephi lest they be slain but they found a place where they could watch lamanite daughters play and they abducted 24 of them. The Lamanites blamed the people of Limhi and came to war against them. Limhi had seen the lamanite preparations and lay in wait for them and when the lamanites came down the people of Limhi came upon them and slayed a great host of the lamanites. Among them was found the king of the Lamanites wounded. Limhi questioned the king as to why he had come to war and sent Gideon to find out who the real criminals were. Limhi, encouraged by Gideon, told the king all about his father and the wicked priests. The king was pacified and took his armies away.

We must first learn not to judge that we do not make quick judgement and be condemned as happened with the lamanites. Second, we must learn to always be righteous so that when wrongly confronted we are innocent before God of any wrong and that we might pacify those in wrong.

Mosiah 21:

The lamanites began to oppress the people of Limhi and increase their burden isomuch that the people of Limhi were desirous to go up unto war against the lamanites. After their petitions, they were granted war but were soundly defeated and slain by the lamanites. In lamentation they went again into battle but were defeated again. Those that survived humbled themselves greatly to bear the burden of the lamanites and they cried incessantly unto God for relief of their burdens. The lord caused that their burdens would be lightened but they were to remain in bondage. King Limhi caused that the widows were taken care of and that guards were set up to hold off the priests to prevent further problems. Ammon's group was siezed under the supposition that they were priests of Noah. After rejoicing in the truth, they began to plan their escape.

There will be times of persecution in which our burdens will be made heavy and if we try to rebel we will be made worse off than before. We must humble ourselves and pray to God that our burdens may be lightened and that we may be delivered. Because of our iniquities it may be a while before God responds but he will eventually help us. In due time we will be saved from our oppressions.

Mosiah 22:

Ammon and Limhi call the people together and Gideon, being well respected, proposes a plan for escape. They would get the guards drunken with wine and escape through the back gate when the guards were asleep. Limhi followed his advice and gave a large tribute as a gift that the lamanites might become drunken and then they escaped to Zarahemla led by Ammon. Mosiah accepted them with joy. The lamanites pursued them for two days after which time they lost the trail.

If we are faithful to God he will provide a way to free ourselves of the burdens caused by sin. Through faithful servants will the Lord reveal his will that we may become free.

Mosiah 23:

The people of Alma were protected by God and came unto a beautiful land in the wilderness. They began to build and desired that Alma should be their king but he refused telling them the problems of having a king. Alma warned them of the iniquity caused by Noah and told them to trust no one but a man of God. Alma became the high priest and led the church. They built a city called Helam and were prosperous in the land. Armies of the lamanites came upon them having been in search of the people of Limhi. They had found the priests of Noah led by Amulon in the land of Amulon. They had compassion because of their wives, the lamanite daughters. The army said they'd spare Alma's people if he would lead them to the land of Nephi. They did not keep their promise though and set Amulon as the king over the people of Alma.

Even when we are following the will of the Lord persecutions will come. We must always keep ourselves humble and even when in persecution still be righteous and trust that the Lord will deliver us into safety in his own due time.

Mosiah 24:

King Laman, named after his father became king over the lamanites and established Amulon and his brethren as teachers over the lamanites. They were taught the language of the nephites and to keep records and to write one with another, but they were not taught in the ways of God. With their new knowledge they became powerful and began trading. Amulon knew that Alma had been a priest of Noah and began to increase their burdens and threatened them with death if they prayed. The Lord heard the prayers of their hearts and lightened their burdens. The Lord gave Alma revelation and on one morning the guards were put into a deep sleep and the people of Alma escaped into the wilderness and praised God. After a few days of journey they reached the land of Zarahemla and were welcomed by Mosiah.

Satan can provide great worldly knowledge unto men and give them great power on earth. We must, however, always trust in God and be humble and he will make our burdens light. After a time of trial the Lord will help us to escape our burdens that we may be made free to worship him after being tested.

Mosiah 25:

All the people in the land of Zarahemla were brought together as one people. Mosiah had the records of Zeniff and of Alma read before his people that they might know the fate of their brethren. Those children of Amulon did forsake their fathers and became one with the people of Nephi. The people of Limhi were baptized by Alma and Alma was authorized to establish churches throughout the land and to ordain priests and teachers. The people joined the churches and were blessed of God.

We should all unite under the common banner of God. We should support the church insomuch as it is righteous and follows the teachings of God. We should all be baptized and make covenants with God that he may be pleased with us.

Mosiah 26:

The rising generation did not understand the words of Benjamin and did not believe in his words. They refused to join the church and remained in their carnal state. They began to decieve many and lead them from the church. Alma heard about them and brought them before Mosiah but he said that Alma should judge them. Alma is praised of God for his righteousness and is told to judge them according to the sins which they have commited but if they repent then he should forgive them. Those who will not repent should have their names blotted out of the records of the church.

We should always keep our faith in God but realize that even if we sin we can repent and be forgiven but if we do not repent of our sins then we will be condemned and punished for our sins. If we skeep our faith in God we will be rewarded and praied of God.

Mosiah 27:

Mosiah sent out a proclamation that the unbelievers should not persecute members of the church. All people should be equal and they should not be lifted up in pride or be dependent on others but should labor for themselves. There was peace in the land and the people began to prosper. The sons of Mosiah and Alma, son of Alma were numbered among the unbelievers and began to fight against the church. An angel of God came unto them and they did fall upon the earth and understood not the words of the angel. The angel cried again unto Alma and asked why he was fighting against the church of God. Alma was struck dumb and weak and could not move and so was taken before his father. His father rejoiced in the power of God and gathered the people together to see God's power and the people were asked to fast for him. After a few days Alma awakes and tells of his repentence and the words of God. From that time forward, Alma preached the word of God. Alma and the sons of Mosiah set out throughout the land to fix the damage they had caused.

Even if we descend into the depths of sin, the atonement is such that we can be recovered. The Lord will use extreme methods in some cases to bring his annointed back into his fold. We will have to suffer through the repentence process but it is possible to be brought back unto God. When this has happened we must seek to bring others unto God likewise.

Mosiah 28:

The sons of Mosiah desired that they might go up to the land of Nephi and preach the gospel unto the Lamanites. Mosiah was fearful but inquired of the Lord and was told to let them go. The plates found by Limhi were brought before Mosiah who translated them using the seer stones. The plates contained the record of a people who had descended from the time of the great tower and had since been destroyed. The plates and records were passed on to Alma the youngerthat he might lead the church.

We should desire to preach the gospel to all, even the most wicked. For every soul is of worth to God and if we can save even one then we have done a great task. All deserve to hear the truth and be able to join with God.

Mosiah 29:

None of Mosiah's sons would take the throne and so Mosiah sent word out to the people that they should have judges to protect themselves from wicked kings and warns them of what could happen. Mosiah would reign for the rest of his days after which judges would be instituted to rule over them. Mosiah has reigned righteously like his father Benjamin. He tells of the hardships brought on the people by wicked kings like Noah and desires to protect them from ithappening again. The system and hierarchy of judges can put a checks and balances system into place and have a better chance of preserving righteousness. After word was sent out, the people gathered themselves together to vote for judges. Alma was appointed to be both high priest and chief judge over the people.Alma and Mosiah both die ending the reign of the kings.

We should understand the words and advice of Mosiah concerning rulers. We must always have a system of checks and balances so that we are not subject to the swaying of one man. With a system of judges there is collective wisdom and a stronger balance. We must select righteous leaders or else the entire population can fall into disbelief.

Alma 1:

In Alma's first year as chief judge, a strong man was brought before him to be judged. This man had gone out among the people and was preaching false doctrine and leading the people away and was profiting from it. When confronted by Gideon, Nehor drew his sword and slew the aged sage. He was condemned to die and confessed that what he taught was not of God and he was killed. Many priestcrafts continued to be spread in the land but within the limits of the law. The unbelievers persecuted the believers and it grew to the point that the believers would engage in fist fights. Many members of the church were lost. Because of the efficiency of the church, they began to have an abundance. Those not in the church began to get involved in many sorts of iniquities but because they follow the laws peace is maintained.

We must follow the word of God but if we do not we must still seek to obey the laws of the land and respect and tolerate others. The lord blesses those that follow him and they will prosper in the land. As long as tolerance and respect are practiced, peace can be maintained.

Alma 2:

A man wise in the ways of the world, Amlici, being of the order of Nehor, sought to be king over the people. The church feared for if he gained power he would take their rights away and destroy the church. A vote was cast and Amlici lost, but those in favor of him gathered together and made him king over them. Both parties prepared themselves with weaponry and went to war. Alma, being chief judge, went to war with his people. The Lord strengthened the Nephites that they could drive back and slaughter the Amlicites. Alma sent spies to the Amlicites only to discover that they had allied with the lamanite forces and were attacking Zarahemla. With the help of the Lord, the Nephites drove the Lamanite forces back. Alma personally contended with and slew Amlici. He also fought the lamanite king but the king was able to escape. The Amlicites were driven into a land called Hermounts which was posessed of wild beasts which slew them.

When possessed with the spirit of Satan, a man can seek great worldly power and wreck havoc among the children of men. By promoting righteousness we can keep these men from gaining power and hold them off when they come against us with all their might. The Lord will triumph and not let evil hold his work back.

Alma 3:

The Amlicites had marked their heads to be distinguished from the Nephites. The lamanites were dark which they carried from the curse upon their fathers for rebellion against Nephi. Any who mixed with those that were cursed were also cursed. Every man brings upon himself any curses which suffers. Another army of lamanites came upon the nephites, and Alma, being afflicted with a wound did not go into battle but sent a numerous host to drive the lamanites away. Every man will receive his wages from he whom he serves.

Apparently, an increase in melanin is a mark of a curse and genetics is God's way of passing on this "curse" to those who mixed. Also, any child being born of parents cursed in such a way has apparently brought upon himself a "curse" which is evident in his skin.

Alma 4:

Believing that their great afflictions were because of wickedness, the people of Nephi came more fully to God and strengthened the church. Many were baptized into the church and lived in righteousness. Within a few years though the people began to wax proud because of their growths and prosperity. Alma and other church leaders mourned at the pride. With this pride came contentions. The contention was a stumbling block for those not in the church. Social caste divisions began to appear and the poor mourned. Alma, choosing to spend more time with the church, appoints Nephihah as the chief judge.

When we are humble the church and the people will prosper and God will be pleased. When we lift ourselves up in pride, contentions will arise and the people will not be happy. It causes many problems both for members and nonmembers. We must remain humble so that God's work can be fulfilled most effectively.

Alma 5:

Alma begins a preaching circuit in Zarahemla. Alma teaches and reminds the people of their history. Alma plays a major guilt trip on the people for their lack of faith and unbelief. Alma asks them questions of their faith and their belief in God. He teaches them through questions and makes them question what they believe. Alma goes through many sins asking them whether they are guilty of them and encouraging them to repent. He states in plain language that if they are not of God then they are of Satan. Alma bears testimony that what he is teaching is true. Alma tells all to repent of their sins. Alma warns them that if they do not repent of their iniquities they must surely be condemned.

We must take Alma's words as a personal test and apply them to ourselves to see whether we are truly following the word of God. We must honestly evaluation ourselves and where we are at fault we must repent and come unto the Lord so that we are not condemned. We must help our fellow man and humble ourselves that we are not blinded in pride.

Alma 6:

Alma ordained priests and elders at Zarahemla to lead the church. Those who repented of their sins were accepted by the church. Those who did not repent had their names blotted out of the church. All were allowed to worship. Alma went unto the city of Gideon to preach the gospel there also.

If we do not repent we will not receive the blessings given those that are righteous. We must practice tolerance and let each person worship God how they desire to do so.

Alma 7:

Alma finds that the people at Gideon have not fallen as much into iniquity as those at Zarahemla. Alma preaches messianically to them. Alma preaches repentence unto them. Christ shall be born of a virgin Mary and shall go forth suffering all manner of afflictions. He will loose the bands of death and take upon him the sins that he might blot them out in the last day. If we are to inherit the kingdom of God we must repent. Whosoever keeps the commandments of God shall be blessed. Alma feels that the people are righteous. Alma supports and encourages humbleness, submissiveness, and charity. Alma blesses and praises the people.

We must remember Christ and his atonement for only through it can we be forgiven of our sins. We must be as the people of Gideon and be righteous and maintain our faith in God and always do that which he would have us do.

Alma 8:

Alma travels to the land of Melek and preaches and baptizes. He then travels to Ammonihah and finds that their hearts are with Satan. Alma labored mightilly to bring them unto repentence but they rejected him and cast him out of the city. An angel appeared to Alma on his course of departure and commanded that he return to Ammonihah and preach destruction if they did not repent. An angel gave revelation unto one Amulek and he took in Alma. Alma and Amulek were commanded to go out to preach to the people. They were given power that they could not be bound in prison nor could they be slain.

Even when we find that things are hard, if it is the Lord's will that it be done, we must do it. We must endure all manner of tribulations but the Lord will protect us so that his work may be accomplished.

Alma 9:

The people did not understand Alma and challenged his authority to preach to them. Alma boldly spoke unto them condeming them if they would not repent. If the people remain in their sins then the lamanites shall be more tolerable at the day of judgement. The Lamanites will be preserved because of their ignorance but if the Nephites betray God they will be destroyed. The Nephites have been greatly blessed and if they, having had this light, turn from God they will be condemned. Alma commands the people to be righteous and prepare for the coming of Christ. The people were mad but could not take Alma and Amulek began to preach.

We must realize that the Lord works great works through small means. Through his prophets are all things establisehed. We, like the Nephites, have been given much and must hold true to that which we have been taught and follow God. If we forsake that knowledge that we have been given we shall be damned.

Alma 10:

Amulek is a descendent of Nephi, who, through Lehi is a descendent of Manasseh. Amulek is a powerful man but he knows the truth of God. Amulek had hardened his heart but an angel came unto him and told him to house Alma. Amulek bears testimony of the divine nature of Alma and of Alma's words. Many lawyers were hired by the people to try to trick Alma and Amulek through words. Amulek was able to tell that they were trying to trick him. If it were not for the prayers of the righteous the people of Ammonihah would be destroyed. The people were angry with him and claimed he spoke against their law. Amulek says that he spoke in favor of their law to their condemnation. The main lawyer was Zeezrom.

The servants of the Lord cannot be tricked through mere words. The lord is smarter than that. He will advise his servants that they will know what to preach unto the wicked. The servants of the Lord follow the laws of the land.

Alma 11:

Judges elected of the people were to receive wages. The coinage system was different from that of the Jews in Jerusalem and was set forth by the Nephites. The judges stirred up problems just to receive more wages. Zeezrom tries to make Amulek deny God by offering him money. Amulek affirms his belief in God. Zeezrom tries to twist Amulek's answers by modifying his words. Amulek rebukes him and bears testimony of the redemption.He speaks of the ressurection. Zeezrom begins to tremble.

We must find righteous ways for our leaders that they do not stir people up unto contention for their own gaim for our leaders are supposed to promote peace and righteousness. Satan will try to twist righteousness to make it appear wrong but there is a truth and we must seek it and hold tightly to it.

Alma 12:

Zeezrom was caught in his words of lies before men and God and began to tremble in his guilt. Alma spoke unto Zeezrom affirming that they knew he had been caught in his lie. Zeezrom began to honestly inquire after them as to the things of God. Alma tells him that to those that are humble is much information given but it is withheld those who harden their hearts. Our words and our works will condemn us. In the end we must go before God in all our shame or glory and be judged of our works. Those who die in their sins shall also suffer a second, spiritual death. For them it is as if no redemption is made. The people were astonished at his words, but one ruler, Antionah, questioned him more. He questions the guarding at Eden and Alma responds that man must die and if Adam had partaken of the tree of life he would not die and the plan of redemption would be frustrated. Angels were sent to converse with man and from that day man called upon God. Commandments were given because man had power to choose and God wanted to keep them from evil. Whoever repents will be saved through Christ but he who does not is forsaken. Alma encourages them to repent.

We must not be caught in unrighteousness lest the wrath of the Lord be poured out upon us. We must follow the teachings of the prophets and trust in God. We will be judged regardless of what state we are in and we would not want to be harrowed up in sin before the judgment seat of God. We want to be able to be forgiven of our sins and live with God rather than be forsaken so it is important to repent and follow his words.

Alma 13:

Priests were ordained to teach the people in the ways of God after the order of the Son of God. They are called based on their righteousness and good works. They posses the holy high priesthood of God which is from the beginning of the world. After being purified they could not look on sin but be it with abhorrence. The people should be humble as the people of Melchizedek were. Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek who was king over the land of Salem. His people had gone astray, but Melchizedek, having faith and priesthood power, did preach repentence unto the people and they did repent and peace was established. Alma told them that they must repent. Angels were preaching it in their land to prepare them for the coming of Christ. Alma is desirous that the people should repent and not procrastinate the day of their repentence but humble themselves before the lord and pray continually. Alma prays that they who repent will be forgiven.

We should become as the people of Melchizedek and humble ourselves from our iniquities. If we become as them we can be more righteous before God and avoid sin. If we repent we can obtain forgiveness and be pure before the Lord. If we repent we will not be condemned and suffer the wrath of the Lord at the last day.

Alma 14:

Many people began to repent and read the scriptures, but many of them believed the deceitful words of Zeezrom and sought to destroy them. They bound them and took them before the chief judge over the land to prosecute them. Zeezrom tried to confess his guilt but the people cast stones at him and any other believers. Alma and Amulek were brought to witness a great slaughter of believers through fire. Amulek desired to stop them but Alma said that God was taking them and that their blood would condemn their murderers. The records were also cast into the fire and destroyed. Alma and Amulek were taunted and then thrown into prison. Lawyers were sent to question them but were given no answers. After many days of being smote and tortured, Alma rose up and inquired of the Lord. They broke the bands and the walls of the prison were rent and broken that their accusers were slain. The people fled from the presence of Alma and Amulek when they saw what had happened.

When we have been wicked in the past it is very difficult to be credible in preaching righteousness. Evil has great power on earth and many will be made to suffer at its will but the Lord knows all and will have his vengeance. We will be made to suffer many afflictions but in the end the Lord always prevails.

Alma 15:

Alma and Amulek were commanded to leave the city and found those that had been cast out and they related the story. Zeezrom was in fever with torment of his sins and the supposed results thereof. Zeezrom sought Alma and Amulek and begged them to heal him. Through his faith, Zeezrom was healed and from that day forth preached the word of God. In the land of Sidom was established a church and leaders were ordained. The people of Ammonihah remained wicked and Amulek was forsaken by his friends and family. Alma took Amulek with him to Zarahemla and nurtured him.

Sometimes our faith in God is at great costs but we must follow God or be damned. Even if we have labored to take people from God and have caused great dissention we can be forgiven if we repent sufficiently and forever after serve God. God is merciful and will forgive those who come unto him.

Alma 16:

The lamanites attacked and destroyed Ammonihah before the Nephites could stop them. The Nephites desired to recover the prisoners of war. A party led by Zoram inquired of Alma as to where they might find their brethren to recover them. Their armies were able to recover them but Ammonihah was desolate and filled with wild beasts. The bodies were heaped up and covered and the land was called the Desolation of Nehors. Alma and Amulek continued to preach and there was equality and peace in the land. The preaching priests taught righteous principles. Many people began to look forward to the coming of Christ.

The Lord's word against the wicked will be fulfilled. If we righteously inquire of the Lord for a righteous purpose he will help us and we will be successful. Sometimes it takes a great catastrophe to bring the children of men to humbleness. This is similar to what has happened to our country and may God bless that the people of this country and others may remain humble and follow God.

Alma 17:

On Alma's way from Gideon he met up with the sons of Mosiah and was happy they were still in the gospel. They had been serving a mission to the lamanites for the space of 14 years. They had journeyed into the wilderness and prayed for guidance and comfort. The lamanites were a wicked and ferocious people but had a chance for repentence because of their false traditions. Ammon was taken captive as was the tradition and he told the king that he desired to be his servant. One day the flocks were driven away and the servants were afraid but Ammon led them in gathering them back. The enemy came again to scatter them and so Ammon threw rocks at them with his sling and killed several. When they raised their clubs at him he chopped their arms off. The servants carried the arms back to the king.

When we are in the service of God he will protect us against danger both physical and spiritual. We must take every opportunity to teach people and times of trial are ideal times to teach people because in these times are they the most humble. The Lord can show his power through you to teach the people.

Alma 18:

The servants testified before the king and the king supposed that Ammon was the Great Spirit sent to punish his people. Lamoni began to fear because he had not thought it wrong to slay his servants before. He was astonished to hear that Ammon was still serving by preparing the horses. Ammon came into the king and was about to leave but the king asked him to stay. The king could not speak as to what he should say but Ammon was able to perceive what he thought and asks the king if it is because of his accomplishments that he marvels and says that he is just a man. Ammon told them about God and rehearsed the whole of their history from the time of Adam. He taught the redemption and of Christ. Lamoni fell upon the floor as if dead after begging mercy of God.

Through righteous living we can be presented with opportunities to teach the truth and the gospel. Through our righteous example, our credibility can be established such that those whom we teach will believe our words and know the truth thereof.

Alma 19:

The people thought that Lamoni was dead and desired to put him in a grave but the queen did not believe that so she called on Ammon. Ammon knew that Lamoni was with God and being cleansed of his sins. Ammon tells her that Lamoni will awake in the morning and she has faith to believe him. Lamoni awoke and praised God and then both him and his wife sink down overpowered by the spirit. Ammon began to thank the Lord and the servants prayed in fear. One woman had been converted years before and knew that this was the power of God so she went house to house proclaiming it. The people all came to the house and were in confusion. One man was angry at Ammon and raised his sword to kill him but he fell dead and so the people became even more confused. The servant believer raises the queen who proclaims Christ and raises the king. The king teaches many words and many believe and are baptized into the church.

The power of God is very powerful. It will not always strike with such might but we can receive experiences like unto this but in lesser intensity by truly seeking Christ and praying for the truth with sincerity of heart.

Alma 20:

Ammon was commanded to go to Middoni to release his brethren from prison and Lamoni says that he will go with him since he knows the king of that land. Lamoni and Ammon meet Lamoni's father along the way and the father is angry and desires that Lamoni should slay Ammon but upon refusal draws his own sword. Ammon talks the father out of smiting Lamoni and so the father attacks Ammon but Ammon is stronger and overpowers him. He threatens the old king of death if his brethren are not released. The king grants the wish and is desirous to hear the words himself. They are able to get Ammon's brethren released from prison though they have had to suffer much.

If we have stood for what is right and continue to do so, we will be protected. Even when confronted by those we love if we stand strong for truth they will see the wisdom in our words and be more willing to listen and do righteous deeds themselves.

Alma 21:

Aaron came unto a city of Jerusalem which was inhabited by Amalekites, Amulonites, and Lamanites who were hard hearted. They questioned him in the synogogues as to why they were not good enough. Ammon goes to another village and recruits others who he finds teaching. When they reach Middoni they are imprisoned until Lamoni and Ammon have them relesed. They continued to preach and were blessed and converted many. When Lamoni returned to the land of Ishmael he refused to let Ammon bea servant but had synogogues built and declared freedom of worship.

First we will be tried, perhaps even grievously, but if we endure well we will reach success. If we remain righteous we can have great and far-reaching effects on the hearts of the children of men. Ammon was able to gain religious freedom for the whole land. If we can even do an hundredth part of what he did how great will be our joy in heaven.

Alma 22:

Aaron travels to the house of the king over all the land, the father of Lamoni. The king asks to be taught and learns that Ammon has stayed in Ishmael to teach Lamoni's people. Aaron teaches the king about God and about the history of the people and about the redemption. The king prays and is struck down. The queen, supposing that Aaron struck him, tries to get different people to slay him but none will. Worried about a multitude gathering, Aaron raises the king and the people were all greatly astonished. The king lets Aaron preach and sends out a declaration to all the land. The Nephites are surrounded on three sides by lamanites and on the north by the land of Desolation. The Nephites stretched from sea to sea on the north to prevent the lamanites from surrounding them.

Like in the story with Lamoni, we learn of the power and wisdom of God. By listening to the spirit of God we can know what we should do to bring to pass great works of righteousness. When we truly seek God, great things can come to pass through us.

Alma 23:

Aaron went out among all the land with safe passage from the king and preached and converted many unto Christ. Many of those that were converted laid down their weapons of war. Only one Amalekite and no Amulonites were converted. The king was desirous that they should be called by a new name to distinguish themselves and symbolize their commitment to God so they called themselves Anti-Nephi-Lehies. They began to be industrious and opened up trade with the Nephites.

When truly converted we no longer have any desire to sin. There are many ways to show God that you will sin no more and for the lamanites this meant laying down their weapons. For us, there are other ways such as giving up other bad habits we may have.

Alma 24:

The Amalekites and Amulonites stirred up the non-believers to anger against the king and the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. A new king was instilled by the old king and he called himself Anti-Nephi-Lehi. He met with the sons of Mosiah and told them that they would not fight because they had commited themselves to God. They buried their weapons in the earth to symbolize their commitment. The other lamanites were desirous to make a new king and came in war against the believers who prostrated themselves on the ground to pray rather than fight. The attackers have compassion and begin to repent themselves. More lamanites are converted than are killed but no Amalekites or Amulonites are converted. Those who once had the truth and fall away are harder than those who never had it.

We must seek peace and desire to sin no more. As long as we are righteous we will be saved in God's eyes. If we are slain we go unto God and if not then we are an example unto the sinner that he might come also unto God. We must keep our testimony else we may become hardened against God and be damned.

Alma 25:

The lamanites angry that they had slain their own brethren attacked the Nephites instead destroying the city of Ammonihah. Most of the seed of Amulon, those wicked priests of Noah, were destroyed in these battles. Many of the lamanites in their grief converted to the church and the Amulonites caused them to be slain by fire. The lamanites were angry over this and destroyed the rest of the seed of Amulon. Many of Abinidi's prophesies concerning this seed had come to pass. Seeing that they could not destroy the Nephites many returned to Ishmael and became converted and obeyed the law of Moses but knew that it pointed toward Christ. The sons of Mosiah rejoiced that they had had so much success among the lamanites.

As has been seen, God's prophecies do come true. No one can stop God's work and through many means will his prophecies be brought to pass. We must look to our modern prophets and to the scriptures for yet to be fulfilled prophecies and prepare ourselves for God will bring them to pass.

Alma 26:

Ammon rejoices in the success that they have had. He is happy that they have brought so many out of darkness unto Christ. Aaron rebukes Ammon for his boasting but Ammon says that he rejoices not in himself but in God. He says that they should glory for many thousands are saved from hell. Ammon rejoices that since they were in such a fallen state they were raised and were able to do such a great work among the lamanites. Ammon recounts friends mocking them before they went and all that they had to suffer but that they have had great results. Ammon continues to boast in God.

In the end, through all of our tribulations, if we are faithful, we will have good results but we cannot attribute them to ourselves, for no matter how much persecution and tribulations we endure, God has given us much and we should be grateful to him and give him the glory for we can do nothing save it is with him.

Alma 27:

The Amalekites finding that they could no longer anger the lamanites against the Nephites sought to enanger them against the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. They again refused to fight and Ammon was desirous that they should take the people to Zarahemla but the king was fearful that they would be slain for their many murders. The king said that they would even be slaves until the debt was repaid but Ammon said they would inquire of the Lord and that slaves were not allowed by the law. After receiving word, Ammon went in advance to tell them and met with Alma. Alma took them to the chief judge who had a vote cast among the people and the people agreed to give the land of Jershon and to guard them that they may be safe. Alma went down with them and related his conversion story. The people were brought up and called the people of Ammon and were from that day numbered with the Nephites and they were distinguished in their zeal toward God.

Despite our iniquities, if we repent and seek to serve God we can also be accepted into the fold of God. Even those to whom we have commited the sins can accept us if our hearts are pure enough. We should also take the other side and be willing to forgive those who come to use in sincere repentance and we should seek to help them stay in the paths of righteousness.

Alma 28:

The people of Ammon were taken into safety in the land of Jershon and a great host of lamanites came to battle against the nephites and tens of thousands of lamanites were slain. Many Nephites were slain too but the people had faith in Christ and knew that their loved ones had gone unto God. We must labour for God to right these wrongs.

Though much trial and tribulation will come to pass we can have faith in Christ too that we and our loved ones will make it through and if along the way death should come, they will be saved unto Christ. We must do what we can to bring peace and the word of Christ unto all that are in the earth.

Alma 29:

Alma wishes that he could preach the gospel unto all but feels that he has sinned because he wants more than has been allotted him. Alma knows that God has allotted unto each man only a certain amount and that he should not desire more. Alma glories in all that God has done. Alma glories not only in what he has done but what his brethren have done. Alma prays for their salvation.

We should realize that we have been given specific tasks from God and that we should be content with it and not desire more for all things will be taken care of in God's time and in God's way. We should merely glory in what we have been given and what God has done.