Alma’s Teachings to the Zoramites

Private Worship

Alma 33:1

Upon hearing Alma’s words, the people want to know how to implement Alma’s teachings about belief, faith, and obtaining fruit.

Now after Alma had spoken these words, they sent forth unto him desiring to know whether they should believe in one God, that they might obtain this fruit of which he had spoken, or how they should plant the seed, or the word of which he had spoken, which he said must be planted in their hearts; or in what manner they should begin to exercise their faith.

Alma 33:2

Alma replies by telling them that they misunderstand the scriptures if they belief that worship can only take place in a synagogue.

And Alma said unto them:

Behold, ye have said that ye could not worship your God because ye are cast out of your synagogues. But behold, I say unto you, if ye suppose that ye cannot worship God, ye do greatly err, and ye ought to search the scriptures; if ye suppose that they have taught you this, ye do not understand them.

Alma 33:3–12

Alma reminds them of the words of Zenos, who taught that God is merciful towards those who engage in private worship.

Do ye remember to have read what Zenos, the prophet of old, has said concerning prayer or worship? for he said: