On Sunday I taught the adult Sunday School class in our ward
(congregation). I love doing this because it gives me the chance to really
study the scriptures and think about how they relate to what’s happening in my
life.
This week the lesson was from the Book of Mormon (the book
we’re studying this year—last year it was the New Testament), the book of Alma,
chapters 30-31. These chapters tell about two kinds of “anti-Christs”—those who
teach against Christ.
The lead villain in chapter 30 is Korihor, a fellow who goes
around telling folks not to worry about keeping Christ’s commandments because
no one can know there is a Christ, because you can’t see him. You can’t know
what you can’t see—right? Korihor also teaches that this life is all there is,
and since there is no God, there is no sin. So don’t worry and just have fun.
But even though Korihor insists he is helping people to
enjoy life more, those who believe in Christ see it otherwise. One, Giddonah,
says, “Why do ye interrupt [the people’s] rejoicings?”
And Alma demonstrates his love and faith as he teaches
Korihor. He shares his own knowledge of Christ and God, which is based on
evidence stronger than mere sight. “”For behold, I say unto you, I know there
is a God, and also that Christ shall come” (Alma 30: 39). He goes on, “The scriptures are laid before
thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all
things that are upon the face of it . . . do witness that there is a Supreme
Creator” (Alma 30: 44).
Later, Alma similarly shows love for the Zoramites, a group
of people who have dissented from the Nephite religion and insist there is no
need for the Atonement of Christ because they are pretty well perfect on their
own. The proud Zoramites refuse to listen to Alma, so he prays: “Behold, O
Lord, their souls are precious, and many of them are our brethren; therefore,
give unto us, O Lord, power and wisdom that we may bring these, our brethren,
again unto thee” (Alma 31: 35).
We had a great discussion about these chapters, considering
what we could learn from Alma about replying to those who say bad things about
our faith—so common in this election year, with Mormon Romney running for
president. Rather than being drawn into contention, we want to be like Alma,
desiring to help our accusers, responding in faith and love.
Interesting how love really is the answer to pretty much any
question.
