Alma Ch16

Here we are going to see what happens to people who don't accept the teachings of Christ. The Nephites have a battle with the Lamanites and win, then there are teachings of some of the leaders of the church. 

On February 5th, year 11 (again another not accurate conversion), was a cry of war throughout the land because the Lamanites were coming after a long stretch of peace (v1-2). They attacked at Ammoniah first and destroyed the city and taken some captive from around Noah before the Nephites got their army together (v3). The appointed captain was Zoram who had two sons, Lehi and Aha, who all went to Alma as the prophet to know how The Lord would direct them to rescue the captives (v4-5).

When Alma asked The Lord, he was given specific instructions where the Lamanites were going to be and the armies were placed in the best position to attack and get their people back (v6-8). That was all that was recorded happening that year, it was awfully important though because it fulfilled the prophecy that Ammoniah would be destroyed (v9).

It was actually so bad that there were carcasses all over the ground decaying and making it stink, so it became known as the Desolation of Nehors (v10-11). If you'll remember, Nehor was a follower of the devil who led many into secret combinations and wickedness. After this war, there were three years of peace that many leaders if the church used to spread the words of God (v12-13). There were many people who were converted and started preaching as missionaries to all the regions around (v14-15).

The Lord was preparing them to receive his words and by warning them about the attitudes that turn men's hearts hard (v16-18). The people received knowledge and inquired for more about Christ and His coming, being filled with joy at the teachings (v19-20). The church flourished during those three years and The Lord blessed them for it (v21).