Alma 6

Chapter Overview

What happens in Alma 6

After his powerful sermon in Zarahemla, Alma ordains priests and elders to preside over the church, establishes order among the congregations, and departs to preach in the valley of Gideon. This brief chapter bridges Alma's ministry in Zarahemla with his subsequent preaching journeys.

Scripture

Establishing order in the church at Zarahemla

Study note

Alma ordains priests and elders by the laying on of hands to watch over the church. Those who repent and are baptized are received into fellowship, while those who will not humble themselves and repent are removed from the church rolls. This pattern of accountability ensures that the church remains a place of genuine discipleship, not merely cultural membership.

1 And now it came to pass that after Alma had made an end of speaking unto the people of the church, which was established in the city of Zarahemla, he ordained priests and elders, by laying on his hands according to the order of God, to preside and watch over the church.

2 And it came to pass that whosoever did not belong to the church who repented of their sins were baptized unto repentance, and were received into the church.

3 And it also came to pass that whosoever did belong to the church that did not repent of their wickedness and humble themselves before God—I mean those who were lifted up in the pride of their hearts—the same were rejected, and their names were blotted out, that their names were not numbered among those of the righteous.

4 And thus they began to establish the order of the church in the city of Zarahemla.

The liberality of the word of God and departure to Gideon

Study note

Alma establishes that the word of God is liberal unto all -- no one is excluded from the privilege of assembling together to hear God's word, to fast, to pray, and to support one another in faith. The gatherings are frequent and open, underscoring the democratic and inviting spirit of true worship. Alma then departs for the valley of Gideon, continuing his mission to reclaim the hearts of the people through the power of preaching.

5 Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God.

6 Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together oft, and join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God.

7 And now it came to pass that when Alma had made these regulations he departed from them, yea, from the church which was in the city of Zarahemla, and went over upon the east of the river Sidon, into the valley of Gideon, there having been a city built, which was called the city of Gideon, which was in the valley that was called Gideon, being called after the man who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword.

8 And Alma went and began to declare the word of God unto the church which was established in the valley of Gideon, according to the revelation of the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers, and according to the spirit of prophecy which was in him, according to the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who should come to redeem his people from their sins, and the holy order by which he was called. And thus it is written. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in Alma 6

The importance of church order and priesthood leadershipAccountability within the body of believersThe word of God is available to allWorship as communal gathering, fasting, and prayerMissionary urgency in ministry

Prophetic Connections

How this chapter points to Christ

Alma 6:1 Titus 1:5

Alma's ordination of elders and priests in every congregation mirrors Paul's instruction to Titus to appoint elders in every city to establish order and sound doctrine in the church.

Alma 6:5-6 Acts 2:42-46

The pattern of frequent gatherings for worship, fasting, prayer, and mutual support echoes the early Christian church in Acts, which met continually for teaching, fellowship, and prayer.

Apply This Today

Living Alma 6

This chapter reminds us that vibrant churches require both structure and openness. Alma ordained leaders to watch over the flock, but he also ensured that the word of God was 'liberal unto all.' No one was denied the privilege of worship. We are invited to value both accountability and inclusivity in our faith communities -- maintaining standards while keeping the doors wide open to every sincere seeker.

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