Alma 20 - 25

As the sons of Mosiah preached the gospel, we can learn and recognize the true signs of conversion. I think King Laman gives us great insight on what is required to be truly converted. Upon hearing “the discussions” in modern terms or in other words, the words of Christ for Aaron taught from the creation of man –

“…laying the fall of man before him, and their carnal state and also the plan of redemption, which was prepared from the foundation of the world, through Christ, for all whosoever would believe on his name.” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:13)

And specifically establishing that –

“…since man had fallen he could not merit anything of himself; but the sufferings and death of Christ atone for their sins, through faith and repentance..,” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:14)

Again, as the king heard these words he asked Aaron -

“…What shall I do that I may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken? Yea, what shall I do that I may be born of God, having this wicked spirit rooted out of my breast, and receive his Spirit, that I may be filled with joy, that I may not be cast off at the last day?...” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:15)

If there was any questions regarding his sincerity, he tells Aaron –

“…I will give up all that I possess, yea, I will forsake my kingdom, that I may receive this great joy…” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:15)

Think of that commitment! The king is willing to sacrifice wealth, position, power, and social status to feel the joy spoken of by Aaron. But the Lord has stated he requires more for –

“…he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit…” (Book of Mormon 2 Nephi 2:7)

Aaron promises the king -

If thou desirest this thing, if thou wilt bow down before God, yea, if thou wilt repent of all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, believing that ye shall receive, then shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest.” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:16)

The king then enters into the covenant that the Lord desires as he –

“…did bow down before the Lord, upon his knees; yea, even he did prostrate himself upon the earth, and cried mightily, saying:
18 O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee…” (Book of Mormon Alma 22:17 - 18)

Conversion takes place as we covenant to give away all our sins. We witness this with conversion for –

“…when these Lamanites were brought to believe and to know the truth, they were firm, and would suffer even unto death rather than commit sin…” (Book of Mormon Alma 24:19)

“…and they began to be a righteous people; and they did walk in the ways of the Lord, and did observe to keep his commandments and his statutes…” (Book of Mormon Alma 25:14)