This passage provides parallel statements of the three groups with whom Nephi is concerned, capped with the collective statement in verse 10.
Nephi begins, logically, with his own people, whom he has led since their separation from the Lamanites. Despite the sadness he has expressed on account of his people’s unbelief, his final testimony emphasizes the positive side. He expects to “meet many souls spotless” at the judgment seat and rejoices in that anticipation.
Nephi then thinks of his Jewish brethren. Even though he is of Joseph’s tribe, he (or Joseph Smith as translator) uses “Jew” as a general term for the house of Israel. Much of his vision had involved their redemption.
His third group is the Gentiles, who will play an important role in redeeming his people. He feels charity toward them, not only for that contribution but also because his own people included New World Gentiles among them. Nevertheless, Nephi’s hopes are tempered with the caution that they must accept the Messiah.
Nephi, a covenant Jew, would distinguish between salvation through the covenant and salvation through the Atoning Messiah. The Gentiles are not part of the covenant people. Therefore, their salvation can come only through the Messiah. While Nephi understands that his own people and the Jews must also eventually accept the Messiah, he also understands that their present relationship to Yahweh is that of the covenant. He also exhorts them to accept the Atoning Messiah.