Pahoran’s statement about submitting to bondage is likely a reaction to the plan of the kingmen. They are planning to submit to Lamanite bondage willingly (verse 8). Pahoran declares that he is not rejecting that possibility entirely, but specifically because it is not commanded of the Lord. Pahoran is placing the true Nephite dependence upon the Lord and his laws in opposition to the actions of the kingmen. More and more, Pahoran paints them as “Lamanite.” By implication, they are not only in violation of the laws of men, but of God, since God has not commanded the surrender to the Lamanites.