“The Departure of Alma and the People That Went with Him”

Brant Gardner

In the previous version from Ammon’s records, he notes Limhi’s description of Noah’s improper reign and Abinadi’s death (Mosiah 7:25–28) but does not mention Alma specifically. Nevertheless, Alma’s activities were clearly important to Limhi as part of Abinadi’s mission, so he certainly would have discussed it. The value that Limhi placed on Alma is evidenced in the last part of the verse. While the words are Mormon’s, it is not difficult to read them as accurately echoing the original source of this prophet “who had formed a church of God through the strength and power of God.” Limhi’s people in their humbled state would certainly have recognized the power of Abinadi’s prophecies about Noah and their own future. They would also have accepted his teachings about the Atoning Messiah. They must have seen in Alma’s church and in his instituting baptism a further fulfillment of Abinadi’s prophecy (v. 33).

Second Witness: Analytical & Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 3

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