Alma 1

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are often persecuted or made fun of because of our beliefs. Not all the time, but frequently. Back in ancient times they were also persecuted and afflicted with all manner of words, "and this because of [the members'] humility; because they were not proud in their own eyes, and because they did impart the word of God, one with another, without money and without price" (20).


As members, when we are faced with opposition, we are to turn the other cheek (Matt. 5:39) and love our neighbors as thyself (Matt. 22:39). We are not to act how many of the ancient members did:

"Nevertheless, there were many among them who began to be proud, and began to contend warmly with their adversaries, even unto blows; yea, they would smite one another with their fists" (22).

That's not good at all. Instead, we should stay steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God, baring with patience the persecution which is heaped upon us (25). We should teach and edify one another with the word of God and work according to our strength. We should be charitable and giving to all. Harold B. Lee said:

“To be persecuted for righteousness sake in a great cause where truth and virtue and honor are at stake is god-like. . . . The great harm that may come from persecution is not from the persecution itself but from the possible effect it may have upon the persecuted who may thereby be deterred in their zeal for the righteousness of their cause. Much of that persecution comes from lack of understanding, for men are prone to oppose that which they do not comprehend. Some of it comes from men intent upon evil. But from whatever cause, persecution seems to be so universal against those engaged in a righteous cause. . . . 

“. . . If you stand firmly for the right despite the jeers of the crowd or even physical violence, you shall be crowned with the blessedness of eternal joy. Who knows but that again in our day some of the saints or even apostles, as in former days, may be required to give their lives in defense of the truth? If that time should come, God grant they would not fail!” (Decisions for Successful Living [1973], 61–62).