Avoiding Deception

We can avoid being deceived by (1) obtaining and remembering accurate information, (2) being vigilant but not paranoid, and (3) drawing closer to God, who can enlighten our minds and help us see more clearly.

Prepare to Be Judged

Nobody likes to be judged, but Book of Mormon prophets clearly emphasize the Final Judgment. Mormon pleads with us to "repent and prepare to stand before the judgment-seat of Christ." We prepare by changing for the better, with God's help, every day.

What Is the Second Death?

Jesus overcame death for us in three ways: Because of Him, our bodies and spirits will be reunited after we die. We will also be reunited with God, at least temporarily. Finally, He can help us be prepared at that time to stay in God's presence forever.

Psalm 95 and Alma 12-13

Alma doesn't tell us that he's quoting from Psalm 95, but during his sermon in Ammonihah, he elaborates on phrases and concepts from that psalm. The central message: repent now, be receptive to God, and He will give you peace and stability.

Virtuous Cycles

President Russell M. Nelson taught that the gospel of Jesus Christ produces a virtuous cycle in our lives. Alma gave one example: as we open our hearts, God reveals truth to us a little at a time. Repeated actions can bring incremental growth over time.

Arraigned

There were many lawyers in Ammonihah, so it's not surprising that Amulek used legal terminology to describe our future state. When we can visualize ourselves as a defendant in court, we are motivated to seek and receive all the help we need.

Traps and Snares

Amulek explained to the lawyers in Ammonihah that they were laying "traps and snares to catch the holy ones of God." The devil lays snares for us, preying on our feelings of inadequacy, imperfection, and guilt. We escape those snares by relying on God.

The Plan of Salvation

God has a fabulous plan for us. Book of Mormon prophets call it by various titles, including the plan of happiness, the plan of redemption, and the plan of salvation. As Patrick Kearon observed, these titles remind us that God intends to save us.

Mercy

1. God is merciful. 2. He extends "arms of mercy" toward us. 3. The Savior's bowels are filled with mercy because of what He suffered. 4. He earned the right to offer us mercy. We claim that mercy by repenting. 5. Mercy is central to God's plan for us.

Testimony of Jesus = Spirit of Prophecy

An angel told John that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. The only way we can be sure that Jesus is our Savior is by direct, personal revelation from God. Therefore, the people who have that testimony are the people who receive revelation.

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