For a period, the Gentiles will have the gospel. That possession should and can be a blessing to them. However, it can also be a curse, for “unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48). The gospel carries responsibilities as well as blessings; and when the Gentiles reject that gospel, judgment will come upon them. The “sword” refers to the Triumphant Messiah’s destruction of Israel’s enemies.
Translation: The “sword of justice” is an image that has appeared before in the Book of Mormon (Alma 54:6, 60:29). The ultimate reference, however, is probably from Joseph’s cultural background and most likely means the Sword of Damocles, which hung by a thread over the king on his throne. Mesoamerican swords might have had points but were more typically slicing weapons. (See commentary accompanying 2 Nephi 5:14.) Hanging one would be the equivalent of hanging a club—not nearly as dangerous as a pointed sword. Like other culture-bound metaphors, Joseph probably translated into familiar language a more culturally appropriate image from the plate text.