Conversion is personal—it cannot be passed like an inheritance to one’s children. As you read Mosiah 26:1–6, ponder possible reasons “the rising generation” fell away, and notice the consequences of their unbelief. You might also think about people you wish you could bring to Christ. Throughout your study of Mosiah 25–28, the Spirit may whisper things you can do to help them develop faith in Jesus Christ.

Sometimes we might think that a Church leader like Alma always knows exactly what to do. In Mosiah 26 we read of a problem in the Church that Alma had never dealt with. What did Alma do in this situation? (see Mosiah 26:13–14, 33–34, 38–39). What does Alma’s experience suggest about how you might approach difficult problems in your family or your Church service?

What did the Lord teach Alma in Mosiah 26:15–32? Notice that some of the Lord’s answers were not in direct response to Alma’s question. What does this suggest about prayer and receiving personal revelation?

Repentance and forgiveness are recurring themes in Mosiah 26–27. Look for words and phrases that teach about repentance and forgiveness in Mosiah 26:22–24, 29–31; 27:23–37.

Some people may wonder if God really does forgive them. How do you imagine Alma the Elder would counsel a member of the Church in Zarahemla who had that concern? What did Alma learn from the Lord in Mosiah 26:15–31 that could help this Church member? (see also Moroni 6:8; Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–18; 58:42–43).

IDEAS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN

IDEAS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN

It was obvious that Alma the Younger needed a spiritual rebirth. He and the sons of Mosiah were “the very vilest of sinners” (Mosiah 28:4). But soon after his conversion, Alma testified that conversion is essential—for everyone: “Marvel not,” he said, “that all mankind … must be born again” (Mosiah 27:25; emphasis added).

As you read about Alma’s experience in Mosiah 27:8–37, consider putting yourself in his story. Can you think of things about yourself that need to change? Who, like Alma’s father, might be praying for you “with much faith”? What experiences have helped “convince [you] of the power and authority of God”? (Mosiah 27:14). What “great things” has the Lord done for you or your family that you should “remember”? (Mosiah 27:16). What do you learn from Alma the Younger’s words and actions about what it means to be born again? What examples have you seen?

Take a moment to record some of the ways the Savior is helping you change—or be born again—even if your experiences aren’t as dramatic or as sudden as Alma’s. Is there a hymn you could sing or listen to that expresses your feelings, like “I Stand All Amazed”? (Hymns, no. 193). Who might benefit from hearing about your experiences?
DOWNLOAD I Stand All Amazed song visuals (HERE or below)

Elder David A. Bednar compared being born again to the process of a cucumber becoming a pickle (see “Ye Must Be Born Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 19–22). What does this comparison teach you about conversion?

See also Gospel Topics, “Becoming like Jesus Christ,” Gospel Library; “Alma Testifies He Has Been Born of God” (video), Gospel Library.

Maybe you’ve been in Alma the Elder’s situation with a family member who is making destructive choices. What do you find in Mosiah 27:8–24 that gives you hope? How might these verses influence your prayers on behalf of others?

• Read together Mosiah 27:8–24, and ask your children to identify what Alma and his people did to help Alma the Younger. Have you ever fasted and prayed for someone? Share your experience with your children, and let them share theirs.

• Do you or your children know someone who needs God’s help? Following Alma’s example, maybe you could pray together for that person and, if your children are able, fast for them too.