This chapter emphasizes the importance of parents regularly testifying to their children about the truthfulness of the gospel, drawing from the example of Alma in the scriptures. It discusses the eternal nature of truth, the impact of personal testimonies on children, and the significance of intentional father practices in connecting children to their heritage and shaping their identities.
Ancient and latter-day prophets have often testified of the importance of gospel-centered parenting. King Benjamin once taught, “But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another” (Mosiah 4:15). President Russell M. Nelson has exclaimed, “No other work transcends that of righteous, intentional parenting!” In this episode Dr. Mark D. Ogletree, professor of Church history and doctrine, discusses a critical branch in gospel-centered parenting: intentional fatherhood. Professor Ogletree outlines the characteristics and attributes of intentional fatherhood—principles that apply to all parents and mentors—by examining Alma’s counsel with Helaman, Shiblon, and Corianton. Alma exemplifies a pattern of intentional behaviors as he testifies of the Savior and the truthfulness of the gospel, teaches his sons their ancestry, sets a righteous example and leaves the past behind him, offers individual counsel and praise to each son, calls his children to repentance, and teaches them true doctrine. Modern parents will be inspired on how to teach, direct, and interact with their children as they study the teachings of Alma 36–42.
Publications:
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“Alma as an Intentional Father” (in Give Ear to My Words: Text and Context of Alma 36-42, Religious Studies Center, 2019)
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Beyond the Honeymoon: 25 Questions and Answers About Marital Intimacy (Ogletree, Pistorius, & Brinley, Covenant Communications, 2024)
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Heaven Is Cheering You On: Spiritual Survival in the Last Days (Cedar Fort, 2024)
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The Making of a Man: A Guide to Raising Strong, Resilient Sons (2023)
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Babysitters are Cheaper than Divorces: And Other Lessons I Hope I Have Passed Down to My Children (2022)
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So You’re In Love, Now What? 20 Q&A to Help You Make the Marriage Decision (Deseret Book, 2022)
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No Other Success: The Parenting Practices of David O. McKay (Religious Studies Center, 2017)
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“The Fathering Practices of Joseph F. Smith” (in Joseph F. Smith: Reflections on the Man and His Times, Religious Studies Center, 2013)
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Preserving Families Podcast: https://preservingfamilies.org/episodes
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Stand By My Servants Podcast: https://www.standbymyservants.com/episodes
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Personal Website: https://www.markogletree.com/
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