2 Nephi 5:16 - 5:20
2 Nephi 5:16 And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon save it were not built of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land, wherefore, it could not be built like unto Solomon’s temple. But the manner of the construction was like unto the temple of Solomon; and the workmanship thereof was exceedingly fine.
The Nephites also built a Temple. It look like Solomon’s Temple only not so ornate or lavish. Some of the materials used to build Solomon's Temple were not available in the new world, but was found was used. However, the same care was used in it construction.
2 Nephi 5:17 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did cause my people to be industrious, and to labor with their hands.
Nephi kept his people busy building and working with their hands in the fields.
2 Nephi 5:18 And it came to pass that they would that I should be their king. But I, Nephi, was desirous that they should have no king; nevertheless, I did for them according to that which was in my power.
Now the people, who I’m sure consisted not only of his own family members but other indigence people of the area who join with this progressive group, wanted Nephi to be king. Nephi was a very hands on type of person and a good example. It is no wonder they wanted him to be king. However, Nephi did not favor them having a king of any kind but relented and did all he could for them.
2 Nephi 5:19 And behold, the words of the Lord had been fulfilled unto my brethren, which he spake concerning them, that I should be their ruler and their teacher. Wherefore, I had been their ruler and their teacher, according to the commandments of the Lord, until the time they sought to take away my life.
Nephi stops to make note of the prophecy made by the Lord to him that he would indeed become a ruler and teacher over all his brothers and their families. But now that the group is separated they are now on their own.
2 Nephi 5:20 Wherefore, the word of the Lord was fulfilled which he spake unto me, saying that: Inasmuch as they will not hearken unto thy words they shall be cut off from the presence of the Lord. And behold, they were cut off from his presence.
The Lamanites are now also cut off from the presence of the Lord because of their rebellion against Nephi’s leadership and their refusal to seek the Lord and keep his commandments.
