Nephi’s great panoramic vision now ended. Typically such an experience leaves the participant physically exhausted (see 1 Nephi 1:7; 1 Nephi 17:47; Moses 1:10; Joseph Smith History 1:20; Daniel 8:27); such was Nephi’s experience (verse 6). Nephi found his brothers arguing over the meaning of the things Lehi had said to them by the spirit of prophecy. How strange it is that such things should be a matter of dissension!
Surely nothing but their own pride precluded them from asking Lehi for a more complete explanation of his words. It was also their right to learn of the things Lehi had prophesied of by the spirit of revelation, as Nephi had just done. This they also refused to do. The meanness of their spirits naturally robs them of the confidence that they could approach the Lord and have him respond.
It is the exclusive province of the household of faith-those filled with the spirit of charity, those who let virtue garnish their thoughts unceasingly-to have their confidence “wax strong in the presence of God” and celestial knowledge distil upon their souls “as the dews from heaven” (D&C 121:45).
In response to Nephi’s question, “Have ye inquired of the Lord?” his brothers said: “We have not; for the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us.” In response, Nephi reminded them of a promise apparently recorded on the plates of brass: “If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you” (Verse 11; italics added).