“If Ye Suppose That Ye Cannot Worship God Ye Do Greatly Err”

George Reynolds, Janne M. Sjodahl

No doubt Alma paused for a moment's rest between portions of his lengthy sermon, of which rest the throng that had gathered there were quick to take advantage. Alma's message met with a deep response among them. It is true many did not understand the meaning of his words, but they nevertheless took them to be good. Some wanted to know more of God; their belief in Him and whether or not He was just one, or many different Beings. Alma had spoken to them of a certain kind of precious fruit which they might pluck from a tree planted as a seed in their hearts. Behold, he told them that if they would water and nurture such a seed, that it would swell and sprout, and that they would feel it grow, and then they "must needs know that the seed is good." By caring for the seed planted in their hearts, they would show by doing so that they had begun to exercise their faith. Concerning these things, and many others, they wanted Alma to speak further.

2 Ne. 9:30) Thus the Zoramites regarded their poorer brethren.

However, Alma, himself, was quick to carry home his message of forbearance. "Ye do greatly err," he said unto them, "if ye suppose that ye cannot worship God" without synagogues or sanctuaries. Search the Scriptures, it may be, perchance, ye have not understood them when they speak of houses of worship.

Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 4

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