I love Abinadi. I am grateful for Alma for being the one to tell his story. Abinadi was a martyr in the Book of Mormon and one of the most powerful stories of a prophet facing opposition in all scripture. Similar to John the Baptist, Stephen, and even the Savior Jesus Christ, Abinadi willingly gave his life in defense of truth.

Every time I read about the prophet Abinadi, I am struck by the power of his words. He so bravely stands up to the wicked king Noah and his priests, warning them that their wickedness will lead to their destruction and captivity. Abinadi seems fearless against this opposition and he is extremely confident that he is sent from God.

One of my favorite moments in his story is when King Noah orders his priests, “Away with this fellow, and slay him; for what have we to do with him, for he is mad.”

They thought he was crazy and nothing more than a nuisance, but then the power of God really showed up: See Mosiah 13:1-10

I love it! What amount of faith and power would have to be over you to speak up like that to the very people that held you captive and wanted to kill you? Ultimately, after Abinadi delivered his message, he was killed, and his death was a type and a shadow of the death of Jesus Christ.

On a personal note, I can remember discussing this story with my mom when I was a kid. I don’t remember how old I was or where exactly I was, but I remember that she asked me if I had enough faith that I would be willing to die for the gospel. In my childish innocence, I probably said yes, but more importantly, that planted in my heart a desire to be like Abinadi. If I did not yet have the faith to give up my whole life to God, maybe one day I would, and I could work towards that.

My mom’s question changed my life. It helped put me on the path to truly valuing my testimony more than my own life. Abinadi’s story converted only one man in King Noah’s court, but his story has also played an important role in my personal devotion to Jesus Christ and His church. I am so grateful for all the players in this chain of events: for Abinadi, for Alma, for my mom, and ultimately, for my Savior Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ also willingly gave up His life. He did it to overcome death for all of us. Because of Him, we will all live again. One day I want to be able to see my mom again. I would also love to meet Abinadi, and Alma. Because of that Easter morning so long ago, I will be able to meet all of them, but most importantly, I will see my Savior.

I will end with a question. Would you be willing to give up your life in defense of your testimony?