Welcome to the weekly Come, Follow Me study guide. This resource is designed to assist you in your personal scripture study and reflection, helping you to delve deeper into the teachings of Jesus Christ and apply them in your daily life. You’ll find scriptures to focus on and simple, daily prompts to guide your study each week.
By consistently following this guide, you can enhance your understanding of the gospel, strengthen your relationship with God, and experience personal growth and spiritual development. As you study Come, Follow Me at home, you’ll invite the Spirit into your life, prepare to receive personal revelation, and build a foundation of faith to sustain you through life’s challenges.
Theme: “The Rock of Our Redeemer”
Scripture Focus: Helaman 1-6
Introduction:
The Book of Helaman chronicles a period of significant political and spiritual upheaval among the Nephites and Lamanites. These chapters highlight the consequences of pride, the power of repentance, and the importance of building a firm foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. The narrative unfolds with dramatic events, including assassinations, invasions, and miraculous conversions, offering profound lessons for readers today.
Chapter 1: The death of the chief judge Pahoran leads to a power struggle among his sons, resulting in internal conflict and the assassination of Pahoran by Kishkumen. This chapter teaches the dangers of pride and ambition, and how internal strife can weaken a community, making it vulnerable to external threats. The Nephites’ vulnerability is exploited by the Lamanite leader Coriantumr, who captures Zarahemla. This chapter demonstrates the impact of unity and humility in maintaining strength and security.
Chapter 2: Helaman, the son of Helaman, becomes the chief judge. Kishkumen’s attempt to assassinate Helaman is thwarted, and Gadianton, a new leader of the secret band, flees into the wilderness. This chapter underscores the destructive power of secret combinations and the importance of vigilance and righteous leadership. Helaman’s survival and the exposure of the plot against him highlight the protection that comes from living righteously.
Chapter 3: During a period of prosperity, many Nephites join the church. However, pride and contention soon arise, leading to divisions. Despite these challenges, Helaman rules with justice and equity, and his sons, Nephi and Lehi, grow in righteousness. This chapter illustrates the cyclical nature of pride. Prosperity can lead to pride, but true strength and unity come from humility and obedience to God’s commandments.
Chapter 4: The Nephites face internal dissensions and external threats from the Lamanites, who capture many Nephite cities. Moronihah and his forces manage to reclaim about half of their lost territories. This chapter emphasizes the need for repentance and divine help. The Nephites’ recognition of their reliance on God teaches that true deliverance and strength come from turning to the Lord in humility and submission.
Chapter 5: Nephi and Lehi, following their father’s teachings, embark on a mission to preach to the Nephites and Lamanites. They experience miraculous manifestations, including being encircled by fire and hearing the voice of God. Many Lamanites are converted, leading to a period of peace and unity. This chapter highlights the power of faith and missionary work. Nephi and Lehi’s astonishing success demonstrates that God supports and magnifies the efforts of those who serve Him faithfully.
Chapter 6: The righteous Lamanites preach to the Nephites, resulting in widespread conversions. Both groups prosper during this time of peace. However, the Gadianton robbers continue to grow in power, infiltrating the Nephite government and spreading wickedness. This chapter stresses the importance of continual vigilance and righteousness. Even during times of peace and prosperity, the influence of evil can grow if not actively resisted.
One of the central themes in these chapters is the importance of building our lives on a firm foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. Helaman 5:12 emphasizes that when we build our foundation on Christ, we cannot fall, even amidst trials and temptations. How might you apply this theme in your own life and family?
Day 1: Discover
- Read the assigned scriptures for the week.
- Helaman 1-6
- Reflect on key phrases or messages.
- Consider historical context and background information.
- Reading the chapter headings can help gain background context.
Day 2: Study
- Dive deeper into the scriptures by studying cross-references.
- Consult study aids such as footnotes, Bible dictionary, or online resources.
- Here are a few podcasts to listen to as you study Come, Follow Me this week.
- Helaman 1-6 Part 1 • Jenae Nelson • August 26 – September 1 • Come Follow Me
- Helaman 1-6 Part 2 • Jenae Nelson • August 26 – September 1 • Come Follow Me
- Helaman 1–6 | Aug 26–Sept 1 | John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson | Come Follow Me Book of Mormon
- Come Follow Me Book of Mormon Helaman 1-6 (Aug. 26-Sept. 1) Don’t Miss This
- Keep a study journal and write down any questions that arise as you study this week’s Come, Follow Me lesson.
Day 3: Apply
- Reflect on how these chapters apply to your life.
- Consider how you can remain humble and faithful to the Lord’s commandments, no matter your circumstances.
- What do you learn from reading about the examples of Nephi and Lehi? Write down some ways that you can emulate them.
Day 4: Share
- Discuss the scriptures and insights gained with a friend, family member, or study group.
- Exchange thoughts and perspectives.
- Share something you learned from your Come, Follow Me study this week with a friend, family member, or on social media.
Day 5: Ponder
- Find a peaceful environment and dedicate specific time to reflect on what you have learned. Consider visiting the temple or a quiet place that resonates with you, where you can focus and ponder without distraction.
- Pray for guidance and understanding.
- Consider how the principles taught can deepen your relationship with God.
Conclusion:
As you study these passages this week, reflect on how you can strengthen your foundation in Christ. Consider ways to incorporate daily practices such as prayer, scripture study, and acts of service into your life. Ask the Lord for insight and inspiration to make small but impactful changes that will bring you closer to Him. By doing so, you can find guidance, protection, and peace, much like the Nephites and Lamanites who turned to God during times of turmoil.
Additional Resources:
- Here are some links to relevant talks, articles, and videos from Church leaders that can benefit your study this week.
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
