Just as Jacob and Moroni labored diligently that their garments would not be spotted with the sins of others, we too must labor in our own callings and service to teach and testify, to be “an example of the believers” (1 Timothy 4:12), and in particular to live in such a way that we are not found to be a stumbling block to the spiritual progress of another; neither must we be the cause of someone’s disbelief or rejection of the gospel. We have an obligation as believers to warn the world and to invite all to come unto Christ (see D&C 63:58; D&C 88:81). If we neglect this mandate by wilfully refusing to be a conscientious “watchman” of the Lord, then the sins of those affected by our wickedness and slothfulness will be answered upon our heads (see Ezekiel 3:17-21; Ezekiel 33:1-9).
“My Garments Are Not Spotted with Your Blood”
In giving this warning and testimony, Moroni is saying that he has taught and testified, preached and prophesied, as he has been commanded of the Lord. He has fulfilled his responsibility, and if people reject his words they must do so by their own agency and at their own risk. In so doing they are left without excuse. This phrase reflects what Jacob earlier taught his people concerning his prophetic responsibility and their own accountability.
“And we did magnify our office unto the Lord, taking upon us the responsibility, answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not teach them the word of God with all diligence; wherefore, by laboring with our might their blood might not come upon our garments; otherwise their blood would come upon our garments, and we would not be found spotless at the last day”
(Jacob 1:19).