Where we are
Mosiah 27 is the BoM's-master-chapter of-the-angelic-arresting-of-the-persecutor and-the-three-day-death-like-sleep and-the-born-of-God doctrine. The chapter is the BoM's-most-dramatic-conversion-narrative and-one-of-the-foundational-texts of-the-Restoration's-doctrine-of-being-born-again. The chapter has-the-rising-generation-of-unbelievers persecuting-the-Church; King-Mosiah issuing-a-proclamation-against-persecution; Alma-the-Younger (son of Alma the High Priest) and-the-four-sons-of-Mosiah (Ammon, Aaron, Omner, Himni) going-about-secretly-attempting-to-destroy-the-Church; an-angel-of-the-Lord-appearing-to-them in-a-voice-like-thunder; the-earth-trembling; Alma-the-Younger struck-dumb-and-helpless and-falling-to-the-earth-as-dead; the colleagues-carrying-him to-his-father-Alma; Alma-the-Younger lying-as-though-dead for-three-days-and-three-nights while-the-Church-fasts-and-prays; on-the-third-day rising-and-testifying he-has-been-born-of-God, his-soul-redeemed-from-the-gall-of-bitterness; the-converted-six then-going-forth-throughout-the-land-zealously-preaching-the-gospel they-had-once-sought-to-destroy.
The chapter has five movements: (1) the persecution-and-Mosiah's-proclamation (vv. 1–7); (2) the persecutors-named and-the-angelic-arrest (vv. 8–17); (3) Alma's-three-day-death-like-sleep (vv. 18–23); (4) the testimony-of-the-born-again (vv. 24–31); (5) the zealous-preaching of-the-converted (vv. 32–37).
For the reader, the chapter contains six especially load-bearing texts: (1) v. 14 and again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith — the chapter's-master prayers-of-the-father-answered statement; (2) v. 18 and now Alma and those that were with him fell again to the earth, for great was their astonishment; for with their own eyes they had beheld an angel of the Lord; and his voice was as thunder, which shook the earth; and they knew that there was nothing save the power of God that could shake the earth and cause it to tremble as though it would part asunder — the chapter's-master angel-voice-as-thunder statement; (3) v. 24 for, said he, I have repented of my sins, and have been redeemed of the Lord; behold I am born of the Spirit — the chapter's-master born-of-the-Spirit statement; (4) v. 25 and the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters — the chapter's-master must-be-born-again statement; (5) v. 26 and thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God — the chapter's-master new-creatures statement; (6) v. 29 my soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more — the chapter's-master redeemed-from-the-gall-of-bitterness statement.
The persecution and Mosiah's proclamation (verses 1–7)
And now it came to pass that the persecutions which were inflicted on the church by the unbelievers became so great that the church began to murmur, and complain to their leaders concerning the matter; and they did complain to Alma. And Alma laid the case before their king, Mosiah. And Mosiah consulted with his priests. — Mosiah 27:1
The chapter opens with the persecution-by-the-unbelievers and-the-corporate-complaint. The persecutions which were inflicted on the church by the unbelievers became so great that the church began to murmur, and complain to their leaders concerning the matter. The doctrine: the chapter has the persecuted-Church bringing-the-case to-the-leadership; the leadership consulting-the-king. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the proper-channel for-corporate-grievance — through-the-Church-leadership to-the-political-authority, with-the-king-consulting-his-priests. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the cooperative-Church-state-response to-persecution.
And it came to pass that king Mosiah sent a proclamation throughout the land round about that there should not any unbeliever persecute any of those who belonged to the church of God. — Mosiah 27:2
The chapter records Mosiah's-proclamation against-persecution. King Mosiah sent a proclamation throughout the land round about that there should not any unbeliever persecute any of those who belonged to the church of God. The doctrine: the chapter has the political-protection of-the-Church-from-persecution by-royal-edict; the same Cyrus-protects-the-Jews pattern (Ezra 6:6-12), the same Antoninus-Pius-protects-Christians pattern (Justin Martyr, First Apology). The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the religious-liberty doctrine in-the-pre-Christian-BoM-period. The Mosiah-proclamation is therefore one-of-the-BoM's-foundational-texts for-the-religious-liberty argument that-Articles-of-Faith 11 will-codify.
And there was a strict command throughout all the churches that there should be no persecutions among them, that there should be an equality among all men; — Mosiah 27:3
The chapter records the internal-equality-command. There was a strict command throughout all the churches that there should be no persecutions among them, that there should be an equality among all men. The doctrine: the chapter extends-the-Mosiah-23:7-doctrine of-one-flesh-not-above-another into-the-internal-Church-discipline; the same Gal. 3:28 doctrine — there is neither Jew nor Greek… for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the equality-of-the-saints discipline.
That they should let no pride nor haughtiness disturb their peace; that every man should esteem his neighbor as himself, laboring with their own hands for their support. — Mosiah 27:4
The chapter records the no-pride and-the-labor-discipline. That they should let no pride nor haughtiness disturb their peace; that every man should esteem his neighbor as himself, laboring with their own hands for their support. The doctrine: the chapter has the Pauline-and-Levitical-summary already-articulated by-Mosiah-and-Alma; the same Lev. 19:18 and Mt. 22:39 doctrine, plus-the-2-Thess.-3:10 work-discipline. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline-and-pre-Synoptic articulation of-the-equality-and-labor doctrine.
Yea, and all their priests and teachers should labor with their own hands for their support, in all cases save it were in sickness, or in much want; and doing these things, they did abound in the grace of God. — Mosiah 27:5
The chapter records the no-paid-clergy doctrine. All their priests and teachers should labor with their own hands for their support. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-foundational-text-on the unpaid-clergy doctrine; the same pattern Paul-articulates-in 1 Cor. 9:6-15 and 1 Thess. 2:9 (laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you), and-the-same-pattern that-anchors the-LDS-doctrine of-the-unpaid-lay-priesthood. The chapter is one-of-the-most-foundational-texts in-the-BoM for-the-Restoration's-doctrine-of-the-non-professional-clergy. Same labor-with-own-hands grammar as 1 Cor. 4:12 — we labour, working with our own hands; 1 Thess. 4:11 — work with your own hands; Acts 18:3 — Paul abode with Aquila and Priscilla… because he was of the same craft… for by their occupation they were tentmakers. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the unpaid-clergy doctrine — and one-of-the-most-load-bearing-Restoration anchors in-the-BoM.
And there began to be much peace again in the land; and the people began to be very numerous, and began to scatter abroad upon the face of the earth, yea, on the north and on the south, on the east and on the west, building large cities and villages in all quarters of the land. — Mosiah 27:6
The chapter records the peace-and-the-expansion. There began to be much peace again in the land; and the people began to be very numerous, and began to scatter abroad upon the face of the earth. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-peace-fruit of-the-equality-discipline; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the peace-follows-equality discipline.
And the Lord did visit them and prosper them, and they became a large and wealthy people. — Mosiah 27:7
The chapter records the Lord's-visiting-and-prospering. The Lord did visit them and prosper them, and they became a large and wealthy people. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-prosperity-as-grace-fruit; the same 1-Ne.-2:20-pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the peace-prosperity-visiting cycle of-the-righteous.
The persecutors named and the angelic arrest (verses 8–17)
Now the sons of Mosiah were numbered among the unbelievers; and also one of the sons of Alma was numbered among them, he being called Alma, after his father; nevertheless, he became a very wicked and an idolatrous man. And he was a man of many words, and did speak much flattery to the people; therefore he led many of the people to do after the manner of his iniquities. — Mosiah 27:8
The chapter records the named-persecutors. The sons of Mosiah were numbered among the unbelievers; and also one of the sons of Alma was numbered among them. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-tragic-irony — the king's-sons and-the-high-priest's-son are-the-leading-unbelievers; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the heritage-does-not-save doctrine. The sons-of-the-godly are-not-automatically-godly themselves; the same Eli's-sons (1 Sam. 2:12-17), Samuel's-sons (1 Sam. 8:1-5), David's-Absalom (2 Sam. 15) pattern. Same children-of-the-righteous-rebel grammar as 1 Sam. 2:12 — now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord; Mosiah 26:1-4 — there were many of the rising generation that could not understand the words of king Benjamin. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the heritage-is-not-conversion doctrine.
The phrase a very wicked and an idolatrous man… a man of many words, and did speak much flattery — the chapter's-precise-diagnostic of-the-pre-conversion Alma. The doctrine: the chapter does-not-spare-the-pre-conversion-portrait; the same blunt-honesty as Paul's-self-portrait in-1 Tim. 1:13 — who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-honest-pre-conversion-self-portrait doctrine — Alma-the-Younger's-witness will-be-strong because-his-pre-conversion-portrait is-undefended.
And he became a great hinderment to the prosperity of the church of God; stealing away the hearts of the people; causing much dissension among the people; giving a chance for the enemy of God to exercise his power over them. — Mosiah 27:9
The chapter records Alma's-pre-conversion-damage to-the-Church. He became a great hinderment to the prosperity of the church of God; stealing away the hearts of the people. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-Absalom-pattern (2 Sam. 15:6 — Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel); the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the steal-the-hearts pattern in-the-pre-conversion-Alma. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the destroying-by-flattery discipline.
And now it came to pass that while he was going about to destroy the church of God, for he did go about secretly with the sons of Mosiah seeking to destroy the church, and to lead astray the people of the Lord, contrary to the commandments of God, or even the king— — Mosiah 27:10
The chapter records the secret-conspiracy. He did go about secretly with the sons of Mosiah seeking to destroy the church, and to lead astray the people of the Lord. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-secret-organization against-the-Church; the same secret-combinations doctrine that-the-BoM-will-elaborate-later. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the secret-conspiracy-against-the-Church pattern.
And as I said unto you, as they were going about rebelling against God, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto them; and he descended as it were in a cloud; and he spake as it were with a voice of thunder, which caused the earth to shake upon which they stood; — Mosiah 27:11
The chapter's master-angel-appears verse. The angel of the Lord appeared unto them; and he descended as it were in a cloud; and he spake as it were with a voice of thunder, which caused the earth to shake upon which they stood. The doctrine: the chapter has the descended-in-a-cloud-with-voice-of-thunder appearance — the same Ex. 19:16's-Sinai-theophany (thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount); the same Mt. 17:5's-Mount-of-Transfiguration (a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud); the same Acts 9:3-4's-Paul-on-the-Damascus-road (suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven). The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the theophanic-angelic-appearance-with-cloud-and-thunder pattern; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline-and-pre-Transfiguration articulation of-the-cloud-thunder theophany. Same cloud-and-thunder theophany grammar as Ex. 19:16-19; 1 Kgs. 19:11-12; Mt. 17:5; Acts 9:3-4; Rev. 1:14-17. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the cloud-thunder theophany providence.
And so great was their astonishment, that they fell to the earth, and understood not the words which he spake unto them. — Mosiah 27:12
The chapter records the fall-to-the-earth-incomprehensible. They fell to the earth, and understood not the words which he spake unto them. The doctrine: the chapter has the immediate-physical-overthrow of-the-persecutors; the same Acts 9:4's-Paul-fell to-the-earth pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-persecutor-thrown-to-the-ground doctrine.
Nevertheless he cried again, saying: Alma, arise and stand forth, for why persecutest thou the church of God? For the Lord hath said: This is my church, and I will establish it; and nothing shall overthrow it, save it be the transgression of my people. — Mosiah 27:13
The chapter's master-why-persecutest-thou-the-church verse. Alma, arise and stand forth, for why persecutest thou the church of God? The doctrine: the chapter has the precise-phrasing of-the-Damascus-Road encounter — Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? (Acts 9:4). The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-why-persecutest-thou-me address — the Lord-identifies-with-his-Church so-completely that-to-persecute-the-Church is-to-persecute-the-Lord. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-foundational-text for-the-Christ-and-the-Church-are-one doctrine — same Eph. 5:30-32's-we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones grammar. Same why-persecutest-thou grammar as Acts 9:4; 22:7; 26:14 — Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the Christ-identifies-with-his-Church doctrine.
The phrase nothing shall overthrow it, save it be the transgression of my people — the chapter's-precise-statement of-the-Church's-only-vulnerability. The doctrine: the chapter has the Church-cannot-be-destroyed by-outside-persecution; only-internal-transgression can-overthrow-it; the same Mt. 16:18's-the gates of hell shall not prevail against it doctrine, but-with-the-precise-internal-vulnerability articulated. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the Church-is-only-vulnerable-to-the-transgression-of-her-members doctrine.
And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith. — Mosiah 27:14
The chapter's master-prayers-of-the-father-answered verse. The Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth. The doctrine: the chapter has the angelic-explanation-of-the-causality — Alma-the-Father's-prayer is-the-immediate-cause of-the-angelic-appearance; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the prayer-of-the-faithful-father answered-by-angelic-arrest providence. The chapter is one-of-the-BoM's-most-pastoral-texts for-parents praying-for-their-wayward-children. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the persistent-parental-prayer-eventually-answered doctrine — the prayers-of-Monica-for-Augustine pattern in-BoM-key. Same prayer-of-the-righteous-availeth-much grammar as James 5:16 — the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much; Lk. 18:1-8 — the importunate widow. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the parental-prayer-for-the-prodigal providence.
And now behold, can ye dispute the power of God? For behold, doth not my voice shake the earth? And can ye not also behold me before you? And I am sent from God. — Mosiah 27:15
The chapter records the angel's-rhetorical-questions. Can ye dispute the power of God? For behold, doth not my voice shake the earth? The doctrine: the chapter has-the-angel using-the-evidence-of-the-immediate-experience as-the-argument; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the direct-witness-as-the-irrefutable-evidence discipline.
Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off. — Mosiah 27:16
The chapter's master-remember-the-captivity-of-thy-fathers verse. Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-angel charging-Alma-the-Younger to-remember-his-family-history of-divine-deliverance; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the family-history-of-deliverance as-the-foundation-of-conversion. The angel-points-Alma to-Mosiah-24's-burdens-made-light deliverance of-his-father's-people; the doctrine is that-the-knowledge-of-deliverance-of-the-fathers is-a-stronger-summons than-any-private-revelation. Same remember-thy-fathers'-deliverance grammar as Deut. 8:2 — thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee; Ps. 78:1-7 — that the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the remember-the-deliverance-of-the-fathers conversion-discipline.
And now it came to pass that these were the last words which the angel spake unto Alma, and he departed. — Mosiah 27:17
The chapter records the angel's-departure. These were the last words which the angel spake unto Alma, and he departed. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-angel withdrawing-after-the-encounter; the same Lk. 1:38's-the angel departed from her pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the angel-withdraws-the-saint-must-act doctrine — the encounter establishes-the-knowledge, but-the-saint must-make-the-response.
Alma's three-day death-like sleep (verses 18–23)
And now Alma and those that were with him fell again to the earth, for great was their astonishment; for with their own eyes they had beheld an angel of the Lord; and his voice was as thunder, which shook the earth; and they knew that there was nothing save the power of God that could shake the earth and cause it to tremble as though it would part asunder. — Mosiah 27:18
The chapter's master-angel-voice-as-thunder verse. His voice was as thunder, which shook the earth… they knew that there was nothing save the power of God that could shake the earth and cause it to tremble as though it would part asunder. The doctrine: the chapter has the immediate-empirical-recognition that-only-divine-power could-have-shaken-the-earth so; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the natural-evidence-of-divine-power providence — the earth-shaking is-the-witness-no-one-can-deny. The Damascus-Road pattern again: Paul's-companions also-saw-the-light (Acts 9:7, 22:9) and-could-not-deny-the-event. Same earth-shaken-by-divine-voice grammar as Ex. 19:18 — and mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke… and the whole mount quaked greatly; Ps. 18:7 — the earth shook and trembled; Mt. 27:51 — the veil of the temple was rent in twain… and the earth did quake; Heb. 12:26 — whose voice then shook the earth. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the earth-shaken-by-divine-voice providence.
And now the astonishment of Alma was so great that he became dumb, that he could not open his mouth; yea, and he became weak, even that he could not move his hands; therefore he was taken by those that were with him, and carried helpless, even until he was laid before his father. — Mosiah 27:19
The chapter records Alma's-physical-collapse. Alma was so great that he became dumb, that he could not open his mouth; yea, and he became weak, even that he could not move his hands; therefore he was taken by those that were with him, and carried helpless, even until he was laid before his father. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-paralysis-of-the-confronted-sinner; the same Zacharias-struck-dumb (Lk. 1:20) and Paul-struck-blind (Acts 9:8) and Daniel-overwhelmed (Dan. 10:7-9) pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Lucan-and-pre-Pauline articulation of-the-physical-incapacitation-as-the-prelude-to-conversion providence. Same struck-dumb-and-helpless grammar as Lk. 1:20 (Zacharias-struck-dumb); Acts 9:8 (Paul-led-by-the-hand into Damascus); Dan. 10:7-9 (Daniel's-strength-left-him). The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the struck-helpless-as-prelude-to-conversion providence.
And they rehearsed unto his father all that had happened unto them; and his father rejoiced, for he knew that it was the power of God. — Mosiah 27:20
The chapter records Alma-the-Father's-rejoicing. His father rejoiced, for he knew that it was the power of God. The doctrine: the chapter has the father rejoicing-at-the-son's-paralysis because-he-recognizes-the-divine-cause; the same Lk. 15:24 grammar — for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Lucan articulation of-the-rejoicing-father-of-the-prodigal pattern — Alma-the-Father is the prototype-of-the-prodigal-father.
And he caused that a multitude should be gathered together that they might witness what the Lord had done for his son, and also for those that were with him. — Mosiah 27:21
The chapter records the public-witnessing. He caused that a multitude should be gathered together that they might witness what the Lord had done for his son. The doctrine: the chapter has the father not-privatizing-the-son's-conversion-experience but-making-it-corporate; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the corporate-witnessing-of-the-individual-conversion discipline — the conversion is-personal but-the-witness is-corporate.
And he caused that the priests should assemble themselves together; and they began to fast, and to pray to the Lord their God that he would open the mouth of Alma, that he might speak, and also that his limbs might receive their strength—that the eyes of the people might be opened to see and know of the goodness and glory of God. — Mosiah 27:22
The chapter records the corporate-fast-and-prayer. He caused that the priests should assemble themselves together; and they began to fast, and to pray to the Lord their God that he would open the mouth of Alma. The doctrine: the chapter has the corporate-fast for-the-individual-saint; the same Esth. 4:16's-fast-for-me pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the corporate-fast-for-the-individual-conversion discipline.
And it came to pass after they had fasted and prayed for the space of two days and two nights, the limbs of Alma received their strength, and he stood up and began to speak unto them, bidding them to be of good comfort: — Mosiah 27:23
The chapter records the third-day rising. After they had fasted and prayed for the space of two days and two nights, the limbs of Alma received their strength, and he stood up. The doctrine: the chapter has-the-third-day-rising; the same Hos. 6:2's-after two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up doctrine; the same Christ-rises-on-the-third-day grammar. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Resurrection-typology — the persecutor's-conversion follows the-three-day-pattern of-the-Resurrection of-Christ. The chapter is therefore one-of-the-BoM's-clearest pre-Resurrection-anticipations of-the-three-day-pattern. Same third-day-rising grammar as Hos. 6:2 — after two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up; Mt. 12:40 — the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth; Mt. 16:21 — and be raised again the third day; 1 Cor. 15:4 — he rose again the third day according to the scriptures. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the third-day-rising typology — and one-of-the-BoM's-clearest pre-Christian witnesses of-the-three-day-resurrection-pattern.
The testimony of the born-again (verses 24–31)
For, said he, I have repented of my sins, and have been redeemed of the Lord; behold I am born of the Spirit. — Mosiah 27:24
The chapter's master-born-of-the-Spirit verse. I have repented of my sins, and have been redeemed of the Lord; behold I am born of the Spirit. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-foundational-text-on the born-of-the-Spirit doctrine; the same Jn. 3:5-8 doctrine — except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Johannine-and-explicit articulation of-the-born-of-the-Spirit doctrine — the chapter and Jn. 3 are in-textual-conversation across-the-centuries; the chapter is therefore one-of-the-most-load-bearing-texts in-the-BoM for-the-doctrine-of-spiritual-rebirth.
And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters; — Mosiah 27:25
The chapter's master-must-be-born-again verse. Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-foundational-and-most-universal articulation of-the-must-be-born-again doctrine. The verse is in-direct-textual-conversation with-Jn. 3:7 — marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The chapter and-Jn. 3 are-the-two-clearest-articulations of-the-doctrine in-the-LDS-canon. Same must-be-born-again grammar as Jn. 3:3-8; 1 Pet. 1:23 — being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible; 1 Jn. 5:1 — whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the must-be-born-again doctrine — and one-of-the-most-foundational-doctrinal-texts in-the-BoM.
The phrase all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people — the chapter's-universal-extension. The doctrine: the chapter has the new-birth as-universal-requirement — no-exception by-nation, gender, language; the same Gal. 3:28's-there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female grammar. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-universal-rebirth doctrine.
The phrase becoming his sons and daughters — the chapter's-precise-adoption-formula. The doctrine: the chapter has the new-birth resulting-in-adoption; the same Rom. 8:14-17's-as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God… for ye have received the Spirit of adoption pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-divine-adoption doctrine; the explicit-his sons and daughters formula is-unusually-direct, anticipating-the-Restoration's-clear-doctrine of-divine-parentage.
And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. — Mosiah 27:26
The chapter's master-new-creatures verse. And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-new-creature doctrine. The verse is in-direct-textual-conversation with-2 Cor. 5:17 — therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. The chapter and 2 Cor. 5:17 are-the-two-clearest-articulations of-the-doctrine in-the-LDS-canon. Same new-creature grammar as 2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15 — for in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature; Eph. 4:24 — put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the new-creature doctrine.
The phrase in nowise inherit the kingdom of God — the chapter's-precise eschatological-precondition. The doctrine: the chapter has the new-birth as-the-absolute-precondition for-the-kingdom; the same Jn. 3:5 — except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God doctrine. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the new-birth-as-eschatological-precondition.
I say unto you, unless this be the case, they must be cast off; and this I know, because I was like to be cast off. — Mosiah 27:27
The chapter records Alma's-personal-testimony. Unless this be the case, they must be cast off; and this I know, because I was like to be cast off. The doctrine: the chapter has-Alma testifying from-personal-near-castoff; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline-style testimony from-personal-near-destruction. The same Paul's-I was a blasphemer pattern (1 Tim. 1:13-15).
Nevertheless, after wading through much tribulation, repenting nigh unto death, the Lord in mercy hath seen fit to snatch me out of an everlasting burning, and I am born of God. — Mosiah 27:28
The chapter records the wading-through-tribulation testimony. After wading through much tribulation, repenting nigh unto death, the Lord in mercy hath seen fit to snatch me out of an everlasting burning, and I am born of God. The doctrine: the chapter has the conversion-experience as-tribulation-and-mercy; the same Jude 23's-others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the conversion-as-rescue-from-fire-by-divine-mercy doctrine.
The phrase wading through much tribulation — the chapter's-precise-language-of-conversion as-process. The doctrine: the chapter has-conversion not-as-instantaneous but as-wading-through; the same Rom. 5:3-5's tribulation worketh patience pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the conversion-is-a-wading discipline; conversion is-not-cheap, not-easy, not-painless. The discipline of-the-wade is the discipline of-the-saint who-comes-to-the-Lord through-the-affliction.
My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more. — Mosiah 27:29
The chapter's master-redeemed-from-the-gall-of-bitterness verse. My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more. The doctrine: the chapter is one-of-the-BoM's-most-emotionally-direct testimonies of-conversion. The verse has-three-parallel-couplets — gall-of-bitterness/bonds-of-iniquity, darkest-abyss/marvelous-light, eternal-torment/pained-no-more — each couplet contrasting-the-pre-conversion-state and-the-post-conversion-state. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Petrine articulation of-1-Pet.-2:9's-called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Same gall-of-bitterness grammar as Acts 8:23 — I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity (Peter's-words to-Simon-Magus, in-precise-textual-conversation with-Alma's-words here). The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the redeemed-from-the-gall-of-bitterness conversion-testimony.
I rejected my Redeemer, and denied that which had been spoken of by our fathers; but now that they may foresee that he will come, and that he remembereth every creature of his creating, he will make himself manifest unto all. — Mosiah 27:30
The chapter records the rejected-Redeemer confession. I rejected my Redeemer, and denied that which had been spoken of by our fathers; but now that they may foresee that he will come. The doctrine: the chapter has-Alma confessing-the-specific-sin of-rejecting-the-foretold-Messiah; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the specific-sin-named-in-testimony discipline.
Yea, every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess before him. Yea, even at the last day, when all men shall stand to be judged of him, then shall they confess that he is God; then shall they confess, who live without God in the world, that the judgment of an everlasting punishment is just upon them; and they shall quake, and tremble, and shrink beneath the glance of his all-searching eye. — Mosiah 27:31
The chapter records the every-knee-shall-bow eschatology. Every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess before him. The doctrine: the chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-Phil.-2:10-11's-every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord; and also Isa. 45:23 — unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline-and-pre-Isaiah-anticipating articulation of-the-universal-confession doctrine.
The zealous preaching of the converted (verses 32–37)
And now it came to pass that Alma began from this time forward to teach the people, and those who were with Alma at the time the angel appeared unto them, traveling round about through all the land, publishing to all the people the things which they had heard and seen, and preaching the word of God in much tribulation, being greatly persecuted by those who were unbelievers, being smitten by many of them. — Mosiah 27:32
The chapter records the immediate-zealous-preaching. Alma began from this time forward to teach the people… traveling round about through all the land, publishing to all the people the things which they had heard and seen. The doctrine: the chapter has the post-conversion zeal-mirror-imaging the pre-conversion-zeal; the same Paul-pattern (Acts 9:20 — and straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues). The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-immediate-zealous-preaching-of-the-converted-persecutor doctrine.
But notwithstanding all this, they did impart much consolation to the church, confirming their faith, and exhorting them with long-suffering and much travail of soul to keep the commandments of God. — Mosiah 27:33
The chapter records the consolation-of-the-Church. They did impart much consolation to the church, confirming their faith, and exhorting them with long-suffering and much travail of soul. The doctrine: the chapter has the converted-persecutors becoming-the-consolation of-the-once-persecuted-Church; the chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the once-the-enemy-now-the-comforter providence — the same Acts 9:31's-the churches had rest pattern following-Paul's-conversion.
And four of them were the sons of Mosiah; and their names were Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner, and Himni; these were the names of the sons of Mosiah. — Mosiah 27:34
The chapter records the naming-of-the-four-sons-of-Mosiah. Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner, and Himni. The doctrine: the chapter has the naming-of-the-future-missionaries; the same Mk. 3:16-19's-naming-of-the-Twelve pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-foundational-text for-the-Sons-of-Mosiah missionary-narrative that-Alma 17-26 will-elaborate.
The names are deliberate. Ammon (Hebrew עַמּוֹן, kindred, related people) — the same name as the Ammonite-tribe Israel-encountered, and the same name Lehi's-Ammon will-bear-as-the-leader of-the-king-Lamoni-mission. Aaron (Hebrew אַהֲרֹן, exalted, mountaineer) — the high-priestly-name; Lehi's-Aaron will-suffer-most-of-the-imprisonments. Omner — the BoM-distinctive-name, likely-Egyptian-influenced. Himni — similarly-distinctive. The chapter is therefore-one-of-the-BoM's-clearest examples-of-the-naming-as-mission anchored-here.
And they traveled throughout all the land of Zarahemla, and among all the people who were under the reign of king Mosiah, zealously striving to repair all the injuries which they had done to the church, confessing all their sins, and publishing all the things which they had seen, and explaining the prophecies and the scriptures to all who desired to hear them. — Mosiah 27:35
The chapter records the repair-of-injuries discipline. Zealously striving to repair all the injuries which they had done to the church, confessing all their sins, and publishing all the things which they had seen. The doctrine: the chapter has the converted-persecutors making-restitution; the same Lk. 19:8's-Zacchaeus restoring-fourfold-pattern. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the restitution-as-fruit-of-conversion discipline.
And thus they were instruments in the hands of God in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth, yea, to the knowledge of their Redeemer. — Mosiah 27:36
The chapter records the instruments-in-the-hands-of-God grammar. They were instruments in the hands of God in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth. The doctrine: the chapter has the converted-persecutors becoming-the-Lord's-instruments; the same Acts 9:15 grammar — he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline articulation of-the-instrument-of-God doctrine.
And how blessed are they! For they did publish peace; they did publish good tidings of good; and they did declare unto the people that the Lord reigneth. — Mosiah 27:37
The chapter closes with the master-publish-peace blessing. How blessed are they! For they did publish peace; they did publish good tidings of good; and they did declare unto the people that the Lord reigneth. The doctrine: the chapter ends with the precise-quotation of-Isa. 52:7 — how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the converted-persecutors as-the-feet-of-Isa.-52:7 — the chapter literally-clothes the Sons-of-Mosiah-and-Alma in-the-Isaian-prophecy of-the-publisher-of-peace. Same publish-peace-publish-good-tidings grammar as Isa. 52:7; Nah. 1:15; Rom. 10:15 — how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the publish-peace as-the-fruit-of-conversion pattern — and one-of-the-BoM's-clearest-applications of-Isa.-52:7.
The chapter's architecture
The chapter is five-paneled and operates as the BoM's-foundational-text-on the doctrine-of-being-born-again. Vv. 1–7 establish the persecution and-Mosiah's-proclamation; vv. 8–17 establish the persecutors-named and-the-angelic-arrest; vv. 18–23 establish the three-day-death-like-sleep; vv. 24–31 establish the testimony-of-the-born-again; vv. 32–37 establish the zealous-preaching of-the-converted. The theological center of gravity is vv. 24–26's I am born of the Spirit… all mankind… must be born again… and thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God — the chapter's-master-statement of the must-be-born-again doctrine.
The chapter operates as the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline-and-pre-Johannine articulation of-the-doctrine-of-being-born-again. The textual-conversation with-Jn. 3:3-8 (must-be-born-again), 2 Cor. 5:17 (new-creature), 1 Pet. 2:9 (called out of darkness into his marvellous light), and Acts 9 (the Damascus-Road conversion) is-so-precise-that-the-chapter-can-only-be-read as-an-independent-witness of-the-same-doctrines-that-emerge-in-the-NT-canon. The chapter is therefore one-of-the-BoM's-most-load-bearing-Restoration-anchors — the doctrine-of-being-born-again is-not-a-Pauline-innovation but-a-doctrine-the-BoM independently-witnesses.
The chapter is also the BoM's-clearest pre-Resurrection-typology — the three-day-death-like-sleep-then-rising pattern in-the-Alma-conversion. The chapter has-Alma in-a-grave-like-state for-two-days-and-two-nights, rising-on-the-third-day, walking-out-as-new-creature. The chapter is therefore-one-of-the-BoM's-quietest-but-most-precise pre-Resurrection-witnesses; the typology runs-beneath-the-text without-being-explicitly-pointed-out by-Alma or-by-the-narrator-Mormon — but-the-three-day-pattern is-unmistakable.
How this sits in the literature of its time
Hidden providence
Three threads.
The first is that the chapter's-precise-typological-resonance with-the-Damascus-Road-conversion is the BoM's-clearest pre-Pauline witness of-the-conversion-of-the-persecutor pattern. The chapter has every-element of-Acts 9 — the persecution-of-the-Church, the supernatural-light/cloud-and-thunder, the why-persecutest-thou-me address, the falling-to-the-ground, the physical-incapacitation, the three-day-recovery, the immediate-zealous-preaching-after, the restitution-and-confession. The chapter is therefore-one-of-the-BoM's-clearest-anchors for-the-Restoration's-doctrine-of-the-conversion-of-the-persecutor; the chapter-and-Acts 9 are-independent-witnesses of-the-same-divine-pattern. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the conversion-of-the-persecutor providence — and one-of-the-BoM's-most-precise typological-anchors for-the-Restoration's-doctrine of-the-recurrence-of-divine-conversion-patterns across-dispensations.
The second is that the chapter's-three-day-death-like-sleep is the BoM's-quietest-but-most-precise pre-Christian witness of-the-three-day-resurrection-pattern. The chapter has Alma in-the-grave-state for-two-days-and-two-nights, rising-on-the-third-day, walking-out-as-new-creature — the precise-pattern that-the-Resurrection of-Christ will-make-explicit. The doctrine: the conversion-experience and-the-resurrection-experience are-the-same-divine-pattern in-different-keys; the three-day-pattern is-not-a-temporal-coincidence but-the-Lord's-divinely-chosen pattern for-the-passage-from-death-to-life, whether-spiritual or-physical. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the three-day-pattern providence — and one-of-the-BoM's-most-typologically-rich pre-Christian texts.
The third is that the chapter's-prayers-of-the-father-answered is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the parental-intercession providence. The angel-of-the-Lord explicitly-tells-Alma-the-Younger that-he-is-being-arrested because-of-his-father's-prayers. The doctrine: the prayers-of-the-faithful-parent for-the-wayward-child do-not-disappear into-the-void; they-accumulate before-the-Lord, and-eventually-the-Lord-acts. The chapter is the BoM's-clearest-text-on the persistent-parental-prayer providence — the same Monica-for-Augustine pattern that-every-faithful-parent-of-a-prodigal-child can-claim-as-promise. The chapter is one of the BoM's clearest articulations of the parental-prayer-eventually-answered providence — and one-of-the-BoM's-most-pastoral-texts for-the-faithful-parent of-the-prodigal.
Where this lands
Three practices.
First, expect-the-Lord to-answer-the-prayer-of-the-righteous-parent for-the-wayward-child. The chapter's v. 14 doctrine is the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth. The practice: do-not-cease-praying for-the-wayward-child; the prayer does-not-need-to-be-eloquent; it-needs-to-be-faithful and-persistent. The Lord-may-take-decades to-answer (Alma-the-Father prayed for-many-years before-the-angelic-arrest); but-the-prayer-does-not-disappear. The discipline is the persistent-prayer-without-knowing-the-timing of-the-answer. The chapter teaches that-the-parent's-prayer is-the-immediate-cause of-the-prodigal's-arrest, even-if-the-prodigal-never-knows-it.
Second, if-you-have-been-snatched-from-the-gall-of-bitterness, publish-peace immediately. The chapter's vv. 32, 37 doctrine is the converted-six began-immediately to-publish-peace and-good-tidings of-good. The practice: the converted-saint does-not-wait to-feel-qualified; the conversion-is-the-qualification. The same Mk. 5:19's-Christ-tells-the-Gadarene-go-home-to-thy-friends-and-tell-them pattern. The discipline is the immediate-public-witness of-the-conversion-experience, even-while-the-wading-through-the-tribulation is-still-recent. Do-not-delay the-publishing for-fear-of-imperfection in-the-publisher; the publish-is-the-discipline-of-gratitude.
Third, recognize that-the-new-birth is the precondition for-the-kingdom — and-cooperate-with-it. The chapter's vv. 25–26 doctrine is that-all-mankind must-be-born-again, and-unless-they-do-this they-can-in-nowise inherit-the-kingdom-of-God. The practice: the saint who-has-been-baptized but-has-not-yet-experienced-the-new-birth (the change-of-heart, the becoming-a-new-creature) is-encouraged to-press-forward to-that-change. The doctrine is-not-comfortable but-it-is-clear — the form-of-baptism without-the-substance-of-new-birth does-not-secure-the-kingdom. The discipline is the patient-cooperation-with-the-Spirit toward-the-change-of-heart; cultivate-the-receptivity, the-humility, the-repentance that-the-Spirit-uses to-effect-the-new-birth. The chapter's-discipline is the seek-the-new-birth-with-the-same-earnestness as-Alma-the-Younger.