34 Preserved by His Marvelous Power

Preserved by His Marvelous Power

34 Preserved by His Marvelous Power

Book of Mormon Videos https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/videos-and-images/book-of-mormon-videos?lang=eng  

Alma 56:33 What made Helaman’s little army so strong?

Alma 56:46–47 The were small in number, and they were all very young. What did they have in their favor? How do mothers make a difference in grand ways in this world?

How can we be like the Armies of Helaman and not get discouraged as we face our own latter-day battles?

Alma 53:19 How can having a prophet leader help us?

Alma 56:47 How has your own mother’s faith and example influenced every aspect of your life?

Alma 57:26 How has your faith and trust in God armed you with miraculous power?

Remember God is just and if you don’t doubt, He will preserve you by his marvelous power.

 

Having faith in God helps me overcome fear.
Alma 53:10–22; 56:43–49, 55–56; 57:20–27; 58:39–40

Without faith, truly Helaman’s soldiers would have been fearful. The armies of the Lamanites were fierce and great in number.

How does your faith supply you with reasons to be courageous?

Look for things that help you face your fears with faith in Jesus Christ.

What characteristics did Helaman’s young soldiers have? Why was their faith so strong? How did they exercise faith in Jesus Christ? How did God bless them?

Answer the questions above as you read the following verses:

Alma 53:10–22; 56:43–49, 55–56; 57:20–27; and 58:39–40. (See notes below.)

Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives How can you access power from Jesus Christ to win your battles?

Consider your own personal battles? How will you address the Lord to seek help in moving forward? What are you inspired to do? Will you do it?

Wounded

True to the Faith

Video: Drawing upon the Power of God in Our Lives: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2022-02-0020-drawing-upon-the-power-of-god-in-our-lives?lang=eng  THIS IS A VERY BAD EXAMPLE. DON’T EVER USE THIS VIDEO OR TRANSCRIPT.

For kids:

I can keep my covenants with Heavenly Father.
Alma 53:10–18

How do you feel when someone makes a promise with you and keeps it?

Have you ever been disappointed because someone has broken a promise to you?

Do you think that Heavenly Father is pleased and happy when you keep your promises to Him? He will always keep His promises to you.

Read Alma 53:10–18 The Ammonites had promised that they’d never take a life of a human again, even in battle. They were moved with compassion when so many were losing their lives, but Helaman and his brethren persuaded them not to fight. Their sons had not made this promise, so they became the Army of Helaman.

How are we blessed when we keep our righteous promises? How are we blessed when we make and keep covenants with God?

For kids:

I can be faithful to God like Helaman’s young soldiers.
Alma 53:20–21; 56:47–48

Chapter 34: Helaman and the 2,000 Young Warriors

How can we be like the Army of Helaman?

Alma 53:20–21 What qualities did these young men have?

20 And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.

21 Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him.

We’ll Bring the World His Truth

For kids:

I can be faithful to what my parents teach in righteousness.
Alma 56:45–48; 57:21

Read Alma 56:46–48 What did their mothers teach these young soldiers about faith? What have your mothers taught you?

There are many parents and teachers that teach us about good things like prayer, and faith in Jesus Christ, and repentance. They help us to prepare for baptism and confirmation. They help us to recognize the Spirit and to receive the Holy Ghost. Who are some of the people in your lives that have helped you to learn to have faith in Jesus Christ?

Alma 57:21 In battle it was very important for these young soldiers to obey commandments with exactness.

Why is it important for us to follow the principles, commandments, and ordinances of the gospel with exactness?

• For parents and leaders: How can you—like the mothers of the stripling soldiers—make sure your children know of your faith in God? One way is to share how your faith affects your life. For example, how has He “delivered” you when you “did not doubt”?

 

Followers of Jesus Christ are not easily offended.
Alma 58:1–12, 31–37; 61

Jesus pronounces wo to those who offend. I think this means to those who purposely offend. We are all offended at different times. We all might cause offense at different times. But when we strive to give people the benefit of the doubt, and when we remember the many offenses against Jesus, who forgave us all; we can petition Him to help change our attitudes and our heart.

Moroni had the difficult job of being commander in chief, and he must have felt a huge responsibility for the welfare of the Nephite people. He was offended when support wasn’t given to his armies in the way of manpower and sustenance. There was a huge urgency on his part to make sure that their leaders were fulfilling their obligations to the people. He had already had to deal with so many factions and upheavals, it must have been very disheartening. Again, I cannot stress the urgency in his position to convey not only his need, but his demand for support.

Paharon recognized that from Moroni, and said that he admired his integrity of heart. Moroni sent the letter to the appropriate person, even though he did not know the full circumstances at that time. We didn’t have Twitter.

Alma 58:4–9, 31–32 Helaman had no idea why he wasn’t receiving more suppot.

Don’t you think that Moroni’s letter was written in support of Helaman and the commanders of other armies?

Alma 60 While so many people see this letter from Moroni to Pahorn as being rash and uncalled for, I think that both the circumstances and the lessons learned from this chapter are often overlooked.

Moroni relates the dire circumstances that the Nephites are in, and how much they have lost, and what is at stake. Moroni teaches us when we are justified in going against our government. He teaches us that we have a duty to God to protect our people against unrighteous leadership. Etc.

Remember, Moroni was not rash. He did not bring armies against Pahoron. He waited for a response.

Alma 58:1–12, 31–37 One response of Helaman:

10 Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people.

11 Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him.

12 And we did take courage with our small force which we had received, and were fixed with a determination to conquer our enemies, and to maintain our lands, and our possessions, and our wives, and our children, and the cause of our liberty.

Alma 61 Parhoron’s response:

He had been taken captive, he was glad for Moroni’s letter, because now he knew what to do, that it was just to go against his brethren. He assured Moroni that he wasn’t seeking for power. He complimented Moroni for his integrity of heart.

Why is it important for us to understand how these people reacted to offenses they received? Why is it also important to understand the cause of offenses and how they can hurt and damage us and our relationships?

Elder Bednar pointed to Pahoran as an example of meekness, also stating that the Savior is the most majestic example of meekness. I believe that these men at the battle front were also meek. A commander in chief has to be both meek and fierce (which the Lord can also be).

Meek and Lowly of Heart

Matthew 27:11–26 Jesus was meek before Pontius Pilate and throughout his fake trials and real crucifixion. He was willing to do His Father’s will always.

Moroni also was willing to do his Father’s will. Truly he was. He wasn’t the commander-in-chief because he wanted control over everything. He wanted to save his people, and their homes, and their families, and their rights to worship; etc.

Luke 22:41–42 Jesus recommitted Himself to the Father to do His will.

John 13:4–17 Jesus washed each of His apostles’ feet as a sacred ordinance, even though they didn’t yet understand it, and even though He knew one would betray Him.

I can follow the Lord’s example by working on not causing offense unnecessarily or condemningly. I can also follow the Lord’s example by striving to work with and through His Spirit when I do feel offended; by turning to him in prayer, forgiving the person who offended me, and choosing sadness over anger when it is appropriate to do so.

ChatGPT Response to my query:

In the "Come, Follow Me" manual section titled "Followers of Jesus Christ are Not Easily Offended," the focus is on cultivating a Christlike attitude of patience and forgiveness in the face of offenses. Here’s a reflection on your notes in light of this lesson:

Jesus’ Teachings on Offense

Jesus indeed pronounces "wo" to those who cause offense (Matthew 18:6-7), emphasizing the gravity of intentionally causing others to stumble. However, His teachings also remind us of the inevitability of offenses and the importance of responding with forgiveness (Luke 17:1-4). By striving to give others the benefit of the doubt and remembering Jesus' own endurance of offenses, we can petition Him to transform our hearts and attitudes.

Moroni and Pahoran: A Lesson in Communication and Understanding

Moroni’s situation as commander in chief was fraught with challenges, including the lack of support from the government. His urgent letter to Pahoran, though initially perceived as harsh, was driven by a deep concern for his people's welfare. Pahoran’s response demonstrates remarkable meekness, recognizing Moroni's integrity and clarifying the situation. This interaction teaches us about the importance of understanding the circumstances behind others' actions and maintaining open, honest communication.

Helaman’s Response

Helaman’s experience of not receiving sufficient support highlights the importance of faith and reliance on God in difficult times. His response was to turn to God in prayer, receiving strength and assurance. This exemplifies how leaders can draw on divine help and maintain determination despite external challenges.

Justified Anger and Firmness

Moroni’s letter to Pahoran is a powerful example of justified anger and the necessity of firmness in leadership. While some may view his actions as rash, the circumstances justified his bold approach. This mirrors instances in the life of Jesus, where He displayed righteous anger (e.g., cleansing the temple in Matthew 21:12-13) to uphold God's principles.

Meekness and Lowly of Heart

Elder Bednar’s teachings about Pahoran’s meekness underscore the Christlike attribute of responding to offenses with patience and humility. Jesus exemplified this throughout His trials and crucifixion (Matthew 27:11-26), consistently submitting to His Father’s will. Moroni and Helaman’s responses also demonstrate meekness combined with the necessary firmness to protect their people and uphold righteousness.

Applying These Lessons

We can follow these examples by striving to avoid causing unnecessary offense and by responding to offenses with prayer, forgiveness, and a Christlike attitude. Recognizing when firmness and righteous anger are needed, while maintaining meekness, is crucial. Jesus, who was both meek and firm, is our ultimate example.

Conclusion

Understanding the balance between meekness and firmness, especially when dealing with offenses, is essential for followers of Jesus Christ. The interactions between Moroni and Pahoran, as well as Jesus’ own life, provide valuable lessons in maintaining integrity, patience, and righteous indignation when necessary.

I have a responsibility to lift people around me.
Alma 60:7–14

Alma 60:7–14 These verses offer us many principles for both leaders and disciples to put into practice. How can you do better in helping to meet the needs of others? (See notes below.)

How do these verses show that Moroni’s heart was in the right place, the preservation and safety of his people?

For kids:

I can choose to not be angry.
Alma 61:3–14

Alma 60–61 Have you ever been accused of doing something you didn’t do? How did that make you feel?

Have you ever been given credit for something you didn’t do? How did you respond to that?

Chapter 35: Captain Moroni and Pahoran This children’s account is better than adult commentary’s on the exange between Moroni and Pahoran

Alma 61:3–14 Pahoran tells Moroni what is going on and recommits to Moroni that he going to work with him.

Alma 61:2–3, 8–9 Pahoran tells Moroni how he feels about the dire situation.

Luke 23:34 Jesus said, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.

We can also believe that people are doing their best and that they do not have all the facts. We can forgive those who offend us. I often try to choose sadness over anger. 

If I am humble, life’s challenges can turn my heart to God.
Alma 62:39–51

Demonstrate how things can be hardened or softened by the same circumstances. (Put both a potato and an egg in boiling water for 10 minutes.)

Alma 62:39–51 How did the people reacted to Helaman’s ministry after their long war with the Lamanites? All these verses are important. They people chose to soften their hearts because of the great length of the ward…. They also remembered what great things the Lord had done for them.

45 Therefore, Helaman and his brethren went forth, and did declare the word of God with much power unto the convincing of many people of their wickedness, which did cause them to repent of their sins and to be baptized unto the Lord their God.

46 And it came to pass that they did establish again the church of God, throughout all the land.

47 Yea, and regulations were made concerning the law. And their judges, and their chief judges were chosen.

48 And the people of Nephi began to prosper again in the land, and began to multiply and to wax exceedingly strong again in the land. And they began to grow exceedingly rich.

 

Alma 45:20–24 How did they reacted to his teachings 13 years earlier?

they would not give heed to the words of Helaman and his brethren;

24 But they grew proud, being lifted up in their hearts, because of their exceedingly great riches; therefore they grew rich in their own eyes, and would not give heed to their words, to walk uprightly before God.

 

How has turning to God during times of trial and affliction softened your heart and made you a better person?

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/53?lang=eng

The Lamanite prisoners are used to fortify the city Bountiful—Dissensions among the Nephites give rise to Lamanite victories—Helaman takes command of the two thousand stripling sons of the people of Ammon. About 64–63 B.C.

Vs 9 It is a scary positive for any country to have factions and dissensions among themselves. Unity is important. Our Country is in the most dangerous circumstances at this time.

What characteristics did Helaman’s young soldiers have? Why was their faith so strong? How did they exercise faith in Jesus Christ? How did God bless them?

Answer the questions above as you read the following verses:

Alma 53:10–22

Vs 13-22 It was important for the Ammonites to not take up arms in defense of their country and freedoms, because of the oath that they had made to never again shed man's blood. But 2,000 of their sons enlisted to help out the Nephite army. They were all righteous, good men of great faith.

17 And they entered into a covenant to fight for the liberty of the Nephites, yea, to protect the land unto the laying down of their lives; yea, even they covenanted that they never would give up their liberty, but they would fight in all cases to protect the Nephites and themselves from bondage.

18 Now behold, there were two thousand of those young men, who entered into this covenant and took their weapons of war to defend their country.

19 And now behold, as they never had hitherto been a disadvantage to the Nephites, they became now at this period of time also a great support; for they took their weapons of war, and they would that Helaman should be their leader.

20 And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.

21 Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him.

22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/54?lang=eng

Ammoron and Moroni negotiate for the exchange of prisoners—Moroni demands that the Lamanites withdraw and cease their murderous attacks—Ammoron demands that the Nephites lay down their arms and become subject to the Lamanites. About 63 B.C.

Ammoron and Moroni write rather provoking letters to one another. This is a serious time of war. Moroni’s position is that they aren’t in the wrong and they will continue to defend their rights.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/55?lang=eng

Moroni refuses to exchange prisoners—The Lamanite guards are enticed to become drunk, and the Nephite prisoners are freed—The city of Gid is taken without bloodshed. About 63–62 B.C.

Laman, who had been a servant of the king whom Amalekiah had slain, was the one to take the liquor to the Lamanite guards. They were greedy for it.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/56?lang=eng

Helaman sends an epistle to Moroni, recounting the state of the war with the Lamanites—Antipus and Helaman gain a great victory over the Lamanites—Helaman’s two thousand stripling sons fight with miraculous power, and none of them are slain. Verse 1, about 62 B.C.; verses 2–19, about 66 B.C.; and verses 20–57, about 65–64 B.C.

Vs 11 Those who serve Country because of their love for God and their fellowmen will find joy in their death and their situation hereafter.

Vs 16-17 Become part of God's Army. You can be one who publishes peace, who helps to increase faith, who gives assistance and helps to strengthen spirits.

Vs 19 Peacemakers and those who are willing to defend liberties will gain the favor of the Lord. Share the gospel. Publish peace.

What characteristics did Helaman’s young soldiers have? Why was their faith so strong? How did they exercise faith in Jesus Christ? How did God bless them?

Answer the questions above as you read the following verses:

56:43–49, 55–56.

Vs 43-48 These two thousand young men were valiant men with faith in Jesus Christ, His defense, and His redeeming power. Their mothers had brought them up in the gospel, and they believed on the testimony of Jesus Christ and were strengthened to know that they would be all right.

Vs 55-56 The 2,000 stripling warriors helped the Nephites win this first battle and not one of them was slain.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/57?lang=eng

Helaman recounts the taking of Antiparah and the surrender and later the defense of Cumeni—His Ammonite striplings fight valiantly; all are wounded, but none are slain—Gid reports the slaying and the escape of the Lamanite prisoners. About 63 B.C.

Vs 6 Sixty more stripling warriors join forces. And also six thousand men and provisions.

What characteristics did Helaman’s young soldiers have? Why was their faith so strong? How did they exercise faith in Jesus Christ? How did God bless them?

Answer the questions above as you read the following verses:

57:20–27

Vs 19-22 What a blessing it is to have the strength of youth who are determined and resolute in their faithfulness to Jesus Christ. They are indeed the Hope of Israel and Zion's Army.

Vs 25-27 Again, the Stripling Warriors were preserved because of their faith.

This was ascribes to the miracle power of God, because of the faith of these young men. I believe it was also because the faith of their mothers and fathers who could not physically fight, but who were with their sons in spirit.

Vs 35-36 Learn to always return the glory to God. Be thankful. Express gratitude.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/58?lang=eng

Helaman, Gid, and Teomner take the city of Manti by a stratagem—The Lamanites withdraw—The sons of the people of Ammon are preserved as they stand fast in defense of their liberty and faith. About 63–62 B.C.

10 Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people.

11 Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him.

Vs 12 Even while not knowing why they weren't receiving more support from the government, they put their faith in the Lord and redoubled their efforts. They worked to remain hopeful.

What characteristics did Helaman’s young soldiers have? Why was their faith so strong? How did they exercise faith in Jesus Christ? How did God bless them?

Answer the questions above as you read the following verses:

58:39–40.

Vs 35-37 Helaman also expressed his fear that there must be some faction in the government in this letter sent to Moroni! Even though Pahoran remained true, Helaman and Moroni were not misguided in their judgment.

Helaman acknowledged how the Lord had protected them and blessed them in regaining lands. Even though they weren't strong enough to retain them, he still put his trust in God.

Vs 39-40 Yay, once again the Stripling Warrior were preserved.

Once more they stood fast in the liberty wherewith God made them free. They observed to keep his commandments, and they had faith in the prophecies of what was ahead.

Vs 41 Helaman and Moroni have both invested so much in the defense of their people, their church, and their lives. They have a strong brotherhood in the army and in the church.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/59?lang=eng

Moroni asks Pahoran to strengthen the forces of Helaman—The Lamanites take the city of Nephihah—Moroni is angry with the government. About 62 B.C.

Vs 3 ff Immediately Moroni sent an epistle to Pahoran accessing the situation and asking for help so that they could maintain that part of the land.

Unfortunately, the Lamanites were so numerous and started attacking and overcoming right away; before Moroni's desires had been met. They came in and started killing the Nephites with an exceedingly great slaughter.

Vs 9-13 They lost Nephihah again. Moroni was so sorrowful. he and all the other captains began to doubt, and feared that they'd fall into the hands of the Lamanites because of the wickedness of the people.

How disheartening for these valiant men to have been defending the lives and liberty of so many, and to feel like it might all be in vain because of the wickedness of the people.

There had been so many dissensions. Was this just another?

13 And it came to pass that Moroni was angry with the government, because of their indifference concerning the freedom of their country.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/60?lang=eng

Moroni complains to Pahoran of the government’s neglect of the armies—The Lord suffers the righteous to be slain—The Nephites must use all of their power and means to deliver themselves from their enemies—Moroni threatens to fight against the government unless help is supplied to his armies. About 62 B.C.

Vs 1 It is important to note that Moroni's letter was not solely to Pahoran, but to all those who were in the government who worked with him. Moroni had no idea what was going on and wanted to inform, get help, and remind them of their duty.

Alma 60:7–14 These verses offer us many principles for both leaders and disciples to put into practice. How can you do better in helping to meet the needs of others?

Vs 7-8 How can I do better at helping those who look to me for protection? How can I determine who those people are and what God would have me do?

Vs 9 Are the provisions, or surpluses that I have, that I can give to those in need? Will I share food with them, both physically and spiritually?

Vs 10-12 Am I being apathetic to the situation that our Country is in? Do I care about preserving our freedoms? Am I neglecting my duty as a citizen of the United States? Am I voting for the good of the nation? Am I just hoping someone else will fix it all?

Be involved in the community; be a voice that spreads the gospel; be loving and charitable. Recognize that your physical and spiritual safety is contingent on what you are personally doing to be righteous and spread goodness, truth, and peace.

Vs 13 Sometimes the lives of the righteous are taken, but they are still blessed of the Lord for they are His.

Vs 15-16 Moroni recounts that much of the destruction and many of the setbacks stem to the fact that the kingmen divided their country.

There are also factions throughout our government and the people of the United States. We need to become united again as a people and in the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ. Otherwise, we will be left in our weaknesses.

Vs 20-27 Remembering Jesus Christ, the God of this land, and to keep His commandments is of paramount importance to both our spiritual and physical safety. The United States has taken an active part in supporting oppressed nations around the world. Now, our leaders are letting it be. What has happened in Ukraine the past few months is horrendous. I don't know if we are supposed to be helping them fight their battles against Russia or not. But we really can't expect to be kept save if we just sit back and let the bullies of the world drive out those who are trying to live decent, free, and righteous lives.

Much more has happened worldwide the past two years that has not been properly addressed by the leadership of our Country, especially in Israel.

I don't believe that God will hold our Country guiltless for not helping those who are also fighting for their freedom.

Let it always be said of you, "She did what she could." Cease to be idle. Cease to be unclean.

Vs 25-27 These verses show that Moroni is acting out of love and the best interests of his Country and the country's line of defense. There is nothing hateful; it's just the order of business.

He's a man of faith that will leave the blessing and strength of God all all his freemen, so that they'll be protected while he gathers other true freemen!

Vs 28-29 Remember this letter is not just directed to Pahoran, but to those who are causing the factions. Where do you stand?

There is a great cause for the leaders of the people and all the people of our land to repent and to be up and doing. We need to stir ourselves, and allow the Spirit to stir our hearts, in the defense of our Country, our freedoms, our rights and our rites (especially religious freedom). It is through the teaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ and inviting others to have faith in Him that we can become stronger and be offered heaven's protection, and become prepared for the Second Coming of the Lord.

Vs 30 ff When are we justified in rising up against our government?

Vs 31 Are their inequities destroying his righteous people?

V 32 Do they love engaging in iniquity and do they love money, glory, and the vain things of the world?

Vs 33 Do they transgress the laws of God. This government was only meant for men of virtue to be in leadership. Do they trample the laws of the land under their feet.

Vs 34 Moroni's job was to defend his Coutnry from enemies within and without (same as our military today).

Vs 34-35 Has our leadership not sent enough in the way of provisions, food, and soldiers to fight our Country's battles. Yes, Obama didn't give our military what they needed when fighting in the Middle East; neither has Biden helped Ukraine and Israel from those who have sought to annihilate them.

Vs 36 Moroni was only acting in the office of his position. He wasn't seeking power or to takeover something that didn't belong to him. He was seeking to protect the people, as the commander-in-chief. But if it became necessary for the survival of the Nephite people, he would raise up insurrections.

I believe, from Moroni's words, that there are times when a government overthrow is necessary and justified.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/61?lang=eng

Pahoran tells Moroni of the insurrection and rebellion against the government—The king-men take Zarahemla and are in league with the Lamanites—Pahoran asks for military aid against the rebels. About 62 B.C.

Vs 2 ff Pahron has remained true. He is saddened by the afflictions of the armies. Others have opposed him and sought to take him from office. They have flattered away many people.

Vs 4 Led away hearts of many people, withheld provisions, daunted freemen from joining armies.

Vs 5 Drove Pahoran out of Zaramhelma.

Vs 6-7 Many freemen are flocking to Pahoran daily to defend their country and their freedoms. Those who are rebellious are beginning to fear those who are in the right.

Vs 8 Those in rebellion set up their own king in Zarahemla. It's a really good thing that the Lord knew what was going on and told Moroni to write that letter!

Vs 9 Pahoran is a very good man. He didn't get angry at Moroni, but felt and validated his frustration. They were on the same time and stood fast in the liberty with which God had made them free.

9 And now, in your epistle you have censured me, but it mattereth not; I am not angry, but do rejoice in the greatness of your heart. I, Pahoran, do not seek for power, save only to retain my judgment-seat that I may preserve the rights and the liberty of my people. My soul standeth fast in that liberty in the which God hath made us free.

Vs 10-13 There are times when we must resist wickedness even unto bloodshed. This is so sad.

Vs 14 When a vote is not honored and people are put in office illegally, sometimes you need to do more than just use words.

14 Therefore, my beloved brother, Moroni, let us resist evil, and whatsoever evil we cannot resist with our words, yea, such as rebellions and dissensions, let us resist them with our swords, that we may retain our freedom, that we may rejoice in the great privilege of our church, and in the cause of our Redeemer and our God.

Vs 15-18 Pahoran proposes a plan to Moroni to come quickly with as many as he can gather on the way, so they can regain Zarahemla and get the provisions and help that they need. In the strength of the Lord they'll put an end to this great iniquity.

Vs 19-21 Pahoran is glad he received Moroni's letter. It helped him gain clarity for what he needed to do next.

19 And now, Moroni, I do joy in receiving your epistle, for I was somewhat worried concerning what we should do, whether it should be just in us to go against our brethren.

20 But ye have said, except they repent the Lord hath commanded you that ye should go against them.

21 See that ye strengthen Lehi and Teancum in the Lord; tell them to fear not, for God will deliver them, yea, and also all those who stand fast in that liberty wherewith God hath made them free. And now I close mine epistle to my beloved brother, Moroni.

 

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/62?lang=eng

Moroni marches to the aid of Pahoran in the land of Gideon—The king-men who refuse to defend their country are put to death—Pahoran and Moroni retake Nephihah—Many Lamanites join the people of Ammon—Teancum slays Ammoron and is in turn slain—The Lamanites are driven from the land, and peace is established—Helaman returns to the ministry and builds up the Church. About 62–57 B.C.

Vs 1-3 Vs 1-4 Moroni was so excited that Pahoran was faithful. He was sad because of all the inquity of those who pushed him out and rebelled against God.

He took a small number of men to go meet Pahoran.

Vs 4-5 Are you raising the standard of liberty for others to see and follow?You should ask the Lord what He would have you do?

4 And he did raise the standard of liberty in whatsoever place he did enter, and gained whatsoever force he could in all his march towards the land of Gideon.

5 And it came to pass that thousands did flock unto his standard, and did take up their swords in the defence

Vs 6-9 Moroni and his followers and Pahoran and his were stronger than Pachus and his dissenters.

They gave them battle. Pachus was slain. Pahoran regained judgment seat. The king-men who wouldn't defend their country were put to death.

Vs 10-11 Traitors received capital punishment. What do you think of this? In the United States, we seem to support everyone's right to break the peace and create factions.

Vs 12-15 Moroni had power and authority to send provision and men to the armies of Helaman, Lehi and Teancum. Pahoran went back with Moroni. They defeated a Lamanite army.

Vs 16-17 So many of the Lamanites were glad and anxious to take up the cause of freedom, become Ammonites, and support righteousness. We need to invite people to a better way of life.

Vs 18-26 They regained Nephihah by entering the city with cords and ladders while the Lamanites slept.

Vs 27-29 Lamanite prisoners joined people of Ammon and raised food to support the Nephites. They were desirous for freedom and happy and willing to support the Nephite armies.

Vs 36 So tragic that Teancum died.

37 Now it came to pass that when Lehi and Moroni knew that Teancum was dead they were exceedingly sorrowful; for behold, he had been a man who had fought valiantly for his country, yea, a true friend to liberty; and he had suffered very many exceedingly sore afflictions. But behold, he was dead, and had gone the way of all the earth.

Vs 41 We all respond differently to trials and afflictions. Turning to the Lord, and having Him bless us can help us to have softened hearts and the ability to go on.

Vs 43 Moroni retired. His son Moronihah took his place.

Vs 44
Helman taught the gospel. A regulation had to be made again in the church.

A regulation had to be made in the Church, especially in places like Germany, after WWII.

48 And the people of Nephi began to prosper again in the land, and began to multiply and to wax exceedingly strong again in the land. And they began to grow exceedingly rich.

49 But notwithstanding their riches, or their strength, or their prosperity, they were not lifted up in the pride of their eyes; neither were they slow to remember the Lord their God; but they did humble themselves exceedingly before him.

50 Yea, they did remember how great things the Lord had done for them, that he had delivered them from death, and from bonds, and from prisons, and from all manner of afflictions, and he had delivered them out of the hands of their enemies.

51 And they did pray unto the Lord their God continually, insomuch that the Lord did bless them, according to his word, so that they did wax strong and prosper in the land.

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/63?lang=eng

Shiblon and later Helaman take possession of the sacred records—Many Nephites travel to the land northward—Hagoth builds ships, which sail forth in the west sea—Moronihah defeats the Lamanites in battle. About 56–52 B.C.

Helaman’s sons stayed faithful. Many good people passed away.

Repeat on dissensions and war.