No lesson presented in the Nephite Record is more vividly shown or as frequently given than the one here that Mormon emphasizes. He stresses the point that it is "sin and transgression, and the power of the devil" that divides men into class and class distinction. We may trace many Nephite woes to pride and self-anointed righteousness. The ambition of Amlici to be king of the Nephites is an example of what we mean. His desire to exercise unrighteous authority over his brethren started with pride which in turn had its beginning in the things of the world which he and his followers had accumulated. His wicked aim was to destroy the Republic which was God-inspired. Satan put it into Amlici's heart to aspire to kingship, and thereby overthrow the Work of the Lord. In this way the Nephites were divided into two classes: Those who hoped to profit by Amlici's wicked venture, and those who stood fast with Alma in upholding the law of the land. The evil intent of Amlici not only divided the Nephites into two great groups, but it resulted in open warfare in which internecine strife thousands of Nephites on both sides were slain. 'The "cunning plans" which Satan put into Amlici's heart failed to thwart the purposes of God.' Mormon saw in the experiences of these fifteen years that God will not forsake His people, nor as the Psalmist says, "Leave them in their grief," when they earnestly seek to do His will. In other words, there is nothing that equalizes men more than does righteous behavior. We all stand before God as equals, save those who do and those who do not, obey His words. There is nothing that equalizes men more than by them walking together with the Lord. Again, how often this truth is made known to us when we study the Nephite Scriptures!
That righteousness abound and wickedness be brought to naught, that all His enemies be subdued and men dwell together in unity and peace, is the triumphant call that goes forth to every God-serving man to labor in the Lord's Vineyard that all the people of the Earth shall rejoice in the mercies of Christ, that in Him death is not the end, but only a narrow corridor which leads to a life that is eternal.
Mormon's rejoicing, even though sorrow for his forebear's folly dulled his song of triumph, gives us exceeding cause to exult with him "because of the light of Christ unto life."