The message of these seven verses is simple but direct and vital. The coming forth of the Book of Mormon signals the beginning of the Father’s work-the work of the gathering of Israel-in the last days. In this sense the Book of Mormon is itself one of the signs of the times.
The Savior here teaches that when the time comes that the Book of Mormon is brought to the remnants of Israel, such as the Lamanites, then they, the Lamanites, will know that the prophesied gathering is already under way.