“For behold, angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this is for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory.”
If “angels are declaring it unto many” at the time of Alma’s remarks, why are they not declaring it unto many now? Are we any less important than they were? If we are as important, then why are we not hearing of this now?
What is the definition of “angels” who are doing this “declaring” to “many?” Was Alma included? If so, what is it that turns a man from a mortal to ministering angel? Can a mortal become a ministering angel? How would that occur? What would it require? Can we thereby entertain angels unawares? (Heb. 13: 2.)
If an angel comes to visit with a man, gives him a message, and the man then declares it, are they both made “angels” by this message? Are “angels” always either deceased or unborn? If they are, then why did Joseph teach that “there are no angels who minister to this earth but those who do belong or have belonged to it?” (D&C 130: 5.) If angels “do belong” to the earth are they still mortal?
How would you recognize such a person? Would it be the same way the Lord was known before He showed Himself to the disciples on the Road to Emmaus? (Luke 24: 32.)
If it is the “hearts” which are to be prepared, then does this relate to the disciples “hearts burning within them” as the Lord spoke to them while in the way? Why do His sheep hear His voice? How do they hear his voice?
Why is preparing “the hearts” enough to prepare a people to “receive His word?” Is it more important to “receive His word” than to receive His person? Why would that be so?
Why are we unable to receive Him in His glory until after our hearts have first “received His word?”
It is more difficult to be taught than to have faith for miracles. (3 Ne. 17: 2-8.) Even should you behold the Lord “in His glory” just as the Nephites, it would still be more difficult for you to have the faith to be taught by Him and accept what He has to teach than for Him to perform a miracle.
How alike all the generations of men are. How very relevant, therefore, these words remain for us!