Alma was an effective teacher because he taught according to: 1. The revelations received by his predecessors. 2. The spirit of prophecy: He received revelation while he taught. 3. The testimony of Jesus 4. The holy order by which he was called.
Looking Forward with An Eye of Faith
Alma invited the people of Zarahemla to "look forward with the eye of faith" to the resurrection and the Final Judgment. First, we visualize. Then, we act. Finally, with God's help, we see with our eyes what we had previously seen with "the eye of faith."
Preserving Our Changed Hearts
Alma asked if we have retained the changed heart we have previously received. Elder Dale G. Renlund compared a new spiritual heart to a new physical heart. He pointed out the importance of caring for our new heart, even when we think we're doing well.
A Personal Interview
I took Elder M. Russell Ballard's challenge to hold a personal interview using Alma 5. As a result, I resolved to remember, to be more adaptable, to exercise faith, to let go of pride, to respect others' experiences, and to change some patterns of thought
Awakened
After defeating the Amlicites, the Nephites were devastated and "awakened to a remembrance of their duty." We can easily fall into a spiritual slumber if we are not careful. We need to engage regularly in activities which help us awake unto God.
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.
His Holy Order
Jacob said that he had been called and ordained according to God's holy order. The earliest meaning of "order" is "a body of persons living under a religious discipline." God's church provides a community and activities which help us draw closer to Him.
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.
Freely
John says that each of us can partake of the water of life freely. Alma extended the same invitation to the people in Zarahemla and later to his son Corianton. God offers blessings to His children abundantly, and He invites us to come and receive them.
Out of Great Tribulation
John saw a large multitude at the throne of God dressed in white robes. An angel explained that these people "came out of great tribulation." Sister Michelle D. Craig taught, "Troubles are part of the plan." When life is hard, we are in good company!