We can learn a lot about the ways believers are deceived even today through the study of Korihor in the Book of Mormon. This week in just two chapters, Alma 30–31 we see examples of his counterfeit and find ways to identify true doctrine that can never change. And by the end of the scripture block Korihor will meet his end, reminding us that God will always prevail.
Segment 1
Scriptures:
Alma 31:5 (Prove the word of God)
Alma 30:20 (Wisdom)
Segment 2
Scriptures:
Alma 30:6,12 (Korihor is Anti-Christ)
Alma 30:53 (Korihor was persuaded by the devil)
Words of the General Authorities:
Korihor was an anti-Christ. Anti-Christ is antifamily. Any doctrine or principle our youth hear from the world that is antifamily is also anti-Christ. It’s that clear. If our youth cease to believe in the righteous traditions of their fathers, if our youth don’t understand their part in the plan, they could be led away. (Julie B. Beck, Teaching the Doctrine of the Family, From a broadcast to seminary and institute of religion teachers on August 4, 2009, as recorded in the March 2011 Ensign)
Study Helps:
Antichrist = Anyone or anything that counterfeits the true gospel plan of salvation and that openly or secretly opposes Christ. (Antichrist, Guide to the Scriptures)
Basic Doctrinal Principles:
1. Godhead
2. Plan of Salvation
3. Atonement of Jesus Christ
4. Dispensation, Apostasy and Restoration
5. Prophets and Revelation
6. Priesthood and Priesthood Keys
7. Ordinances and Covenants
8. Marriage and Family
9. Commandments
(Teaching the Gospel in the Savior’s Way, Come, Follow Me)
Segment 3
Scriptures:
Alma 30:14,16,23,27,28,31; 31:16,17,22 (Foolish and silly traditions)
Words of the General Authorities:
It is not enough to know that God lives, that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and that the gospel is true. We must take the high road by acting upon that knowledge. It is not enough to know that President Gordon B. Hinckley is God’s prophet. We must put his teachings to work in our lives. It is not enough to have a calling. We must fulfill our responsibilities. The things taught in this conference are not just to fill our minds. They are to motivate and guide our actions. (Dallin H. Oaks, “Be Not Deceived”, October 2004 General Conference)
True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior. (Boyd K. Packer, “Little Children”, October 1986 General Conference)
Segment 4
Scriptures:
Alma 30:12 (Korihor teaches there is no Christ)
Alma 30:6 (Korihor teaches against prophets)
Alma 30:17-18 (Korihor teaches there is no Atonement and no right/wrong)
Segment 5
Scriptures:
Alma 30:50-59 (The end of Korihor)
Alma 31:1 (Alma is sick because of the iniquity)
Alma 31:15-18 (The prayer on the Rameumptom)
Alma 31:26-35 (Powerful plea of Alma)
D&C 84:88 (God goes before us)
Alma 26:36 (My life, my light, my joy)
View transcript here.