Alma - Chapter 31

Alma 31:5 And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just—yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them—therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God

This is one of my favorite verses in The Book of Mormon.  It has been my experience that it is true.  While the issue of agency precludes the assumption that the word will always work, it is certain that the word is more effective than any other influence in our lives.

Now, I think we generally have a pretty restricted view of that term - the word.  Christ is referred to in John as the Word.  He is also referred to as Love.  I believe that the word Alma is referring to connotes a conveying of Christ's message of love and redemption.  Most of us here in mortality desire an answer and solution to our plight.  The word, properly preached should provide such answers and solutions.  When they do, people grasp hold.  Too often though our preaching doesn't provide that.

I think you'll agree that Alma's message to the Zoramites, was one of hope, love, possibility and solution.  As we read his words over the next few days look for that.