Moroni’s concerns about the Book of Mormon going to the latter-day Gentiles was based on his having seen their day when works of darkness by secret combinations would flourish, leaders of churches would be filled with pride, great pollutions would be upon the land, and sins would be forgiven for money (see Mormon 8:27–35). He was also influenced by the Nephite weakness in writing as compared to the brother of Jared (Ether 12:24–25). Dr. Hugh Nibley has “demonstrated at great length that there is no more perfect exposition of that ancient ‘Epic Milieu,’ which produced the earliest literature of the race than is to be found in the book of Ether.” Although an abridgement, the book of Ether meets the criteria of this type of literature. The ability of the Nephites to speak with power because of the Holy Ghost (v. 23) was confirmed by Nephi, son of Lehi: “And now I, Nephi, cannot write all the things which were taught among my people; neither am I mighty in writing, like unto speaking; for when a man speaketh by the power of the Holy Ghost the power of the Holy Ghost carrieth it unto the hearts of the children of men” (2 Nephi 33:1).
Moroni’s fear of the Gentiles mocking because of the placing of their words (Ether 12:25) has been verified. Much criticism has been leveled against the Book of Mormon because of its language, but those who are qualified to judge confirm that it is a translation from a typical and beautiful mid-eastern language.
The Lord’s answer to Moroni is an oft-quoted section of the Book of Mormon: “Fools mock, but they shall mourn” (Ether 12:26). The Lord’s answer has been verified to thousands and thousands of Latter-day Saints. The weak things from the world’s point of view have become strong through the strength of their character and faith. Through faith (ordinances), hope (works), and charity (grace of Christ), they have come unto Christ, the fountain of all righteousness. Mormon gave a classic sermon on these three words that will be analyzed in chapter 11 of this work.