The Book of Mormon is all about families. The ancient record was passed down from fathers to sons and to sons again. As we read their accounts, we can see how fathers impact their families. The examples of the fathers in the Book of Mormon can teach us and inspire us.
In the Family Proclamation, we read that “by divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families.”
Let’s take a look at some of the fathers in the Book of Mormon and how they filled that role.
Fathers share their experiences.
The Book of Mormon begins with Nephi informing us that he was born of goodly parents, therefore he was taught somewhat in all the learning of his father. Lehi shared what was good with his family. He desired that they all turn to the Lord. Lehi’s love for his family is evident in his vision of the tree of life.
His first thought after partaking of the fruit was “[I]t filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also”
Fathers pray for their children.
Alma was a righteous man but his son, also named Alma, rebelled and worked hard to destroy the church of God. Alma prayed fervently for his son. An angel appeared to Alma the Younger and said, “Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith” (Mosiah 27:14)
Mormon also prayed for his son Moroni. In a letter to Moroni we read, “I am mindful of you always in my prayers, continually praying unto God the Father in the name of his Holy Child, Jesus, that he, through his infinite goodness and grace, will keep you through the endurance of faith on his name to the end.”
Fathers teach and testify.
Alma chapters 36-42 are filled with the teachings of Alma the Younger to his sons. He spoke to each of them individually. He told of his personal conversion. He spoke of their strengths and weaknesses. Then he testified to them of Jesus Christ. In doing so, he pointed his children in the direction of the Lord.
“And now, my son, I have told you this that ye may learn of me that there is no other way or means whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ. Behold, he is the life and the light of the world. Behold, he is the word of truth and righteousness.” (Alma 38:8–9)
We can clearly see how influential a father is. They play a crucial role in a child’s life as they learn and grow. Like The Book of Mormon, life is filled with many great fatherly examples. Take the opportunity to recognize and thank the father figures in your life.
Which father in the Book of Mormon has inspired you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
This article was originally published June 17, 2023 and has been updated.
Kaitlyn is a student at Utah Valley University, where she is studying Public Relations. She served her mission in San Diego California and Chile. Kaitlyn loves sports, country music, being in the mountains and eating chocolate chip cookies.
