As you study Mosiah 12–17, look for Abinadi’s principal message to King Noah and his priests. Ask yourself why Abinadi was willing to die in order to deliver this message.
-
After Abinadi withstood the priests’ attempts to “cross him,” one of the priests asked him a question about a scripture passage (Mosiah 12:19–24; see also Isaiah 52:7–10). Why were the priests unable to understand this scripture passage? (See Mosiah 12:25–27.) What does it mean to apply our hearts to understanding?
-
What does it mean to have the commandments “written in [our] hearts”? (Mosiah 13:11). How might having the commandments written in your heart affect your efforts to obey them?
-
What are some things you learn about the Savior from the prophecy quoted in Mosiah 14?
-
At the end of his discourse, what did Abinadi exhort Noah and the priests to do? (See Mosiah 16:13–15.) How can you apply this counsel in your life?
-
Although you will likely not need to die for your faith, in what ways can you follow Abinadi’s example?
Suggestion for Family Discussion
As a family, make a list of people who, like Abinadi, have delivered the message of Jesus Christ’s Atonement despite being in great danger (see, for example, Acts 4:1–12; 1 Nephi 1:18–20; Mosiah 18:1–2; Helaman 13:1–7). If you know of family members who have done missionary work under difficult circumstances, talk about their experiences. Encourage family members to record these experiences in their journals.