Lifespan

Approximately 174-92 B.C.

Ministry

Alma was an ex-priest of the wicked King Noah. He supported releasing Abinadi without punishment, and drew the wrath of his fellow priests for doing so. After escaping the king’s court, he taught faithful Nephites secretly in the wilderness and founded the church. He served as its prophet for twenty years before being discovered by the Lamanites. After suffering captivity, they escaped and fled to a new land, where they met up with King Mosiah and his people. Mosiah supported Alma in his role as leader of the church, which he did for another twenty years or so.

Preparation and Calling

Alma’s receptive heart believed the words of Abinadi. When he fled the court, he wrote down Abinadi‘s teachings and began to share them secretly with others in a sort of spiritual underground society. His calling to lead this band of faithful adherents was a natural consequence of his proven conviction to truth despite the consequences.

Interaction with God

Although clearly committed to obeying whatever God commanded of him, Alma has left little record of his specific dealings with Deity.

Social Situation

Throughout his life after expulsion from Noah’s court, Alma upheld the church despite persecution. He did so without violence, sometimes preferring flight and avoidance tactics to confrontation. Nonetheless, he was bold in preaching truth and the need for obedience to God in all circumstances, and he never shrank from an opportunity to bear witness of his faith.

Key Teachings

Alma is known for his teachings of devotion and faith during all circumstances.

Living with the Prophet

Alma could have gone along with his peers and condemned Abinadi, thus securing himself comfort and position in the kingdom. Instead, he chose a life of devotion to God. Choose now to make the same decision so that when confronted by uncomfortable public peer pressure, you will have the strength to do what is right.

Sources

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, vol. 1, s.v. “Alma₁.”

Book of Mormon, the book of Mosiah.

Book of Mormon, Reader’s Edition, ed. Grant Hardy.