Book of Mormon Commentary CofC - Odessa, Missouri Community ...

Book of Mormon Commentary
Moroni Chapter 9
Mormon had ceased to be the general of an army. "I can not any longer enforce my commands"
(18). "They are without principle, and past feeling; and their wickedness doth exceed that of the
Lamanites" (21). He could not in good conscience intercede for them with God. But he was commending
Moroni to God's care, that he be spared to witness the final destiny of the people (22, 23).
"We know that many of our brethren have dissented over unto the Lamanites" (25). They were
trying to save their lives by deserting, but this seemed to be a cowardly and futile effort (see verse
16).
This epistle is not a pretty story, but it is the duty of the historian to face life as it is and record it
for those who will follow them. What a sad end for a once great people! (12).
Moroni 9:26 Wherefore, write somewhat a few things, if thou art spared; and I should perish and not see
thee; but I trust that I may see thee soon; for I have sacred records that I would deliver up unto thee.
Mormon had given only "these few plates" to Moroni at first (Mn. 3:7-9). His epistle shows his
concern for the ones he had kept. He knew his death was imminent and that his son had the best
chance for survival (Mi. 8:30; 9:1, 26).
Mormon was conscious of the depressing nature of this epistle and pleaded with Moroni to "be
faithful in Christ." He prayed that Christ's "sufferings and death.... his mercy and long suffering,
and the hope of his glory, and of eternal life . rest in your mind for ever" (27). He also reminded
his son that Christ had even shown his pierced body "unto our fathers." Then this grand old
prophet-general closes his last message with a beautiful benediction: "And may the grace of God
the Father, whose throne is high in the heavens, and our Lord Jesus Christ, who sitteth on the right
hand of his power, until all things shall become subject unto him, be, and abide with you for ever.
Amen" (28). What a glorious faith shines through this prayer from a man who had suffered so
much, and even now was facing a violent death!