Modern readers of the Book of Mormon naturally have a deep interest in the future of the Gentiles, since we are they. Nephi, however, is of Israel, and the vision now turns to the theme in which he has the most abiding interest. This verse explains that the preceding passage about the two churches and the last days are preparation for Israel’s ultimate redemption as the covenants are fulfilled. By this time, the Gentiles who accept the restoration have been included as beneficiaries of God’s covenants with Israel (v. 2).
Variant: The same change to “founder” from “foundation” (1 Nephi 13:6, 14:9) was also made in this verse in the 1981 edition, based on the printer’s manuscript.