July 15-21
Theme: The Virtue of the Word of God
Scripture Focus: Alma 30-31
Welcome to the weekly “Come, Follow Me” study guide. This guide is designed to assist you in your personal scripture study and reflection, helping you 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 we study “Come, Follow Me” at home, we invite the Spirit into our lives, receive personal revelation, and build a foundation of faith that sustains us through life’s challenges.
Introduction:
Welcome to this week’s “Come Follow Me” study guide. We delve into Alma 30-31, exploring the profound theme of “The Virtue of the Word of God.” These chapters present a powerful contrast between the deceits of false teachings and the steadfast strength found in the word of God, offering us timeless lessons on faith, truth, and divine power.
In Alma 30, we encounter Korihor, an anti-Christ who challenges the Nephite beliefs. Korihor’s arguments are rooted in skepticism, atheism, and a reliance on human wisdom. He mocks the people’s faith, dismisses God’s existence, and promotes a hedonistic worldview, asserting that there is no sin because there is no law given by a divine being. His persuasive rhetoric leads many astray, illustrating how misused words can lead to confusion, doubt, and spiritual peril.
However, Alma, the high priest and prophet, stands firm against Korihor’s deceptions. He counters Korihor not with violence or force but with the word of God. Alma’s defense is rooted in testimony and the power of divine truth. He bears witness of God’s existence and goodness, calling upon the evidences of creation, the testimonies of other prophets, and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit. Alma’s words are imbued with a profound spiritual authority that Korihor’s empty philosophies cannot withstand. This confrontation reaches a climax when Korihor is struck dumb by the power of God, a striking demonstration of the ultimate triumph of divine truth over falsehood.
The narrative continues in Alma 31, where Alma and his companions embark on a mission to reclaim the apostate Zoramites. The Zoramites have distorted the teachings of the gospel, engaging in idolatry and prideful worship. Their hollow prayers and insincere rituals starkly contrast with the heartfelt supplications of Alma and his brethren. Alma’s prayer in this chapter is a poignant plea for divine assistance, demonstrating his reliance on the word of God and the power of prayer to soften hearts and bring about repentance.
Throughout these chapters, we see a clear depiction of the virtue of the word of God. Alma’s unwavering testimony and his reliance on divine truth exemplify how the word of God can fortify us against false teachings and spiritual dangers. His experience with the Zoramites further emphasizes the transformative power of the word of God, capable of reaching even the hardest of hearts.
As we study these chapters, we are invited to reflect on the role of the word of God in our own lives. How do we respond to the challenges and doubts in our spiritual journey? Do we, like Alma, turn to the scriptures and the words of prophets for guidance and strength? Are our prayers filled with sincere faith, seeking divine help in overcoming our weaknesses, and reaching out to others with love and truth?
This week, let us immerse ourselves in the study of Alma 30-31, seeking to deepen our understanding of the virtue of the word of God. May we strengthen our testimony, fortify our faith, and recommit to living and sharing the truths of the gospel with those around us. Through the power of the word of God, we can find guidance, protection, and the strength to stand firm in our beliefs, no matter the opposition we may face.
Day 1: Discover
- Read the assigned scriptures for the week.
- Alma 30-31
- 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.
- Alma 30-31 | Book of Mormon Insights with Taylor and Tyler: Revisited
- Alma 30-31 – Context | Come Follow Up
- Alma 30-31 Part 1 • Dr. Brent Top • July 15-21 • Come Follow Me
- Alma 30-31 Part 2 • Dr. Brent Top • July 15-21 • Come Follow Me
- Alma 30–31 | July 15–21 | John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson | Come Follow Me Book of Mormon
- 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 things in your life denote that there is a God.
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 reflecting on what you have learned. Consider visiting the temple or a place of worship that resonates with you, as it can provide a serene setting conducive to contemplation.
- Pray for guidance and understanding.
- Reflect on what you have studied this week.
- Consider how the principles taught can deepen your relationship with God.
Conclusion:
As we conclude this week’s study of Alma 30-31 and reflect on the theme of “The Virtue of the Word of God,” we are reminded of the unparalleled power and protection that come from anchoring our lives in divine truth. Alma’s example demonstrates the strength and clarity the word of God provides in the face of opposition and deceit. By internalizing the teachings found in these chapters, we can fortify our faith, respond with courage to challenges, and reach out to others with love and conviction. Let us commit to continually studying and applying the scriptures, allowing the word of God to guide our actions, shape our beliefs, and illuminate our path. In doing so, we will find peace, purpose, and divine strength in every aspect of our lives.
Additional Resources:
- Here are some links to relevant talks, articles, and videos from Church leaders that can benefit your study this week.
Hannah Hall is a student at Utah State University, studying Human Experience Design and Interaction. She loves music, reading, hiking, gardening, baking, and spending time with her family.
