Alma 23

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Conversion means changing and becoming a new person through the power of God.

1-6. How can you consistently make the right choices? When you face difficult circumstances and adversity, why is it important that you become converted to the Lord rather than to other people or ideas?

"Each of us has observed how some individuals go through life consistently doing the right things. They seem happy, even enthusiastic about life. When difficult choices are to be made, they seem to invariably make the right ones, even though there were enticing alternatives available to them. We know that they are subject to temptation, but they seem oblivious to it. Likewise, we have observed how others are not so valiant in the decisions they make. In a powerfully spiritual environment, they resolve to do better, to change their course of life, to set aside debilitating habits. They are very sincere in their determination to change, yet they are soon back doing the same things they resolved to abandon. What is it that makes the difference in the lives of these two groups? How can you consistently make the right choices?" – Richard G Scott, GC, April 2002

6.  What two things helped bring about the conversion of the Lamanites? Why do you think it was important that Amann and his brother and taught the Lamanites according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy? What do you think it means that the power of God worked miracles in the Lamanites? When have you experience the power of God helping you become converted? When have you seen the power of God working to help someone else become converted?

7. What weapons did the Lamanites used to fight the Nephites? What weapons did they use to fight against God? What weapons do we use to rebel against God? What weapons of rebellion do people use today?

8-15. Why was the mission of the sons of Mosiah so successful? Why wasn't it successful among the Amalekites and Amulonites?

16-18. What evidence do you find in these verses of the Lamanites conversion? Why did the converted limonite want to be called by a new name? How was the people's desire for a new name evidence that they had changed? Why do you think their conversion made them more industrious, friendly and happy? How might those who are converted today be distinguished from others? When a person is trying to repent or change his or her life, how might it be helpful for him or her to associate with other people who are converted?