Alma 7:14–27

“The Path which Leads to the Kingdom of God”

Prophets often refer to the “strait and narrow path” (2 Nephi 31:19), the “covenant path,” or “the path which leads to the kingdom of God” (Alma 7:19). Alma recognized that the people of Gideon were on this path and taught them how to continue on it and become more like God. This lesson is intended to help you in your efforts to acquire Christlike attributes as you follow the path that leads back to God.

A path to follow

• What are the advantages of having a path to follow?

Consider watching “Daily Restoration” from time code 1:40 to 3:25 to see Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explain what happens to people who are traveling without a path or reliable landmarks. This video is available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

After prophesying to the people of Gideon about the life and Atonement of Jesus Christ, Alma shared words of encouragement with them.

Read Alma 7:19–20 to see what Alma said about God, His path, and the people of Gideon.

Consider marking the phrase “the path which leads to the kingdom of God” in verse 19. Today you will learn more about this path.

• How do you think you can tell if you are on the path that leads to God’s kingdom?

1. Complete the following as your assignment for this lesson. Add to it throughout the lesson as you are instructed.

   Draw a picture similar to the following and label it “The path which leads to the kingdom of God.”

   

The path that leads to the kingdom of God is often referred to as the strait and narrow path or the covenant path. We are on this path when we are following the example and teachings of Jesus Christ. Continuing on this path will lead us to eternal life (see 2 Nephi 31:19–20).

As you study, ponder whether you see yourself on the path that leads to the kingdom of God. Look for teachings that help you better understand this path and the blessings the Lord offers you as you follow it.

“The path which leads to the kingdom of God”

Alma described actions we can take that will lead us back to God’s presence.

Read Alma 7:14–16, and then record these actions on or next to the path in your drawing.

• What did these verses help you understand about what it means to be on the path that leads to God?

One truth we can learn from these verses is that as we repent, make covenants with God, and receive the ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we follow the path that leads to the kingdom of God.

• How do these actions help prepare us to return to God’s presence?

• What blessings might we experience during this life by following God’s path?

Developing Christlike attributes while walking His path

Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that one blessing of following God’s covenant path is that it “leads us to become like Him” (“Choose You This Day,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 104).

Look at the following images of the Savior. Think about the attributes that you see Him demonstrating in each image.

• What attributes do you most admire about Jesus Christ? Why?

• In what ways do you want to be more like the Savior? What can make it difficult? How might we overcome these difficulties with the Lord’s help?

• When have you felt the greatest desire to be like Him? What was happening in your life that made you feel that way?

Alma identified some of the Christlike attributes we should strive to obtain as we walk the path that leads to the kingdom of God.

Read Alma 7:22–25 and look for Christlike attributes and behaviors you see stated or described. Consider marking these in your scriptures. You might also consider listing these attributes and behaviors on or near the path in your drawing.

Prayerfully choose an attribute mentioned in Alma 7:22–25 that you feel Heavenly Father would like you to develop, and then complete the following activity. Record your insights at the bottom of your picture or somewhere else in your study journal.

1. Learn more about this attribute. Consider using scripture resources such as Guide to the Scriptures, Topical Guide, or Bible Dictionary to assist with this. Write down what you learned.

2. List challenges of developing the attribute you chose and why you think God allows you to experience those challenges.

3. List two to three different ways your life would be better after acquiring this attribute.

4. Identify an example from the Savior’s life in which He exemplified this attribute. Alternatively, list an example from the life of someone you know in which they exemplified this Christlike attribute.

5. Identify one or more actions you could take that would invite God’s help as you strive to develop this attribute. Make a plan for how to implement that action in your life. One way you might strive to implement this action is by talking with Heavenly Father in your daily prayers about your progress and requesting His help where you are falling short.

Optional: Want to Learn More?

Why is the path to the kingdom of God also referred to as the “covenant path”?

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:

What is the covenant path? It is the one path that leads to the celestial kingdom of God. We embark upon the path at the gate of baptism and then “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men [the two great commandments] … to the end” [2 Nephi 31:20]. In the course of the covenant path (which, by the way, extends beyond mortality), we receive all the ordinances and covenants pertaining to salvation and exaltation. (D. Todd Christofferson, “Why the Covenant Path,” Liahona, May 2021, 116)

How can I develop Christlike attributes?

Watch “Christlike Attributes—the Wind Beneath Our Wings” from time code 12:08 to 16:19 to see Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles answer this question.

Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Seventy explained:

Because Christlike attributes are gifts from God and cannot be developed without His help, in family and personal prayers, pray for those gifts. (Lynn G. Robbins, “What Manner of Men and Women Ought Ye to Be,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 105)

Elder L. Whitney Clayton of the Seventy added these insights:

The attributes of Christ are acquired in the “process of time” [Moses 7:21] by intentional progress along the covenant path. Christlike attributes adorn the lives of those who strive to live with goodness. They fill homes with gospel light, whether the floor is mud or marble. Even if you are the only one in your household who follows the injunction to “seek after these things” [Articles of Faith 1:13], you can contribute to the spiritual furnishings of your family’s home. (L. Whitney Clayton, “The Finest Homes,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 108)