2 Nephi 6:1 - 6:5
2 Nephi 6:1 The words of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, which he spake unto the people of Nephi:
Here are some words that Jacob, brother of Nephi, spoke in a meeting with his people.
2 Nephi 6:2 Behold, my beloved brethren, I, Jacob, having been called of God, and ordained after the manner of his holy order, and having been consecrated by my brother Nephi, unto whom ye look as a king or a protector, and on whom ye depend for safety, behold ye know that I have spoken unto you exceedingly many things.
Jacob tells us that he was ordained to be a priest under the hands of Nephi. That he speaks what Nephi wishes the people to hear and since they have put Nephi in as their king, they should pay attention to what Jacob has to say to them.
2 Nephi 6:3 Nevertheless, I speak unto you again; for I am desirous for the welfare of your souls. Yea, mine anxiety is great for you; and ye yourselves know that it ever has been. For I have exhorted you with all diligence; and I have taught you the words of my father; and I have spoken unto you concerning all things which are written, from the creation of the world.
Jacob is speaking by assignment of Nephi apparently and has some worries he wants to express to the people. He is concerned for their salvation and has felt this concerned even from when he was old enough to discern such things. He has been much like Nephi, he could not keep quiet when he saw wickedness.
He has preached to them the words of his father Lehi and has spoken on many occasions about the events in history since the creation. He uses the term ‘his father’ which might indicate that all are not descendents of Lehi. Jacob is also referring to history as recorded on the brass plates to illustrate what he feels the people need to hear in order to keep their lives on the right path
2 Nephi 6:4 And now, behold, I would speak unto you concerning things which are, and which are to come; wherefore, I will read you the words of Isaiah. And they are the words which my brother has desired that I should speak unto you. And I speak unto you for your sakes, that ye may learn and glorify the name of your God.
Jacob in this sermon will cover points that Nephi wants him to speak to the people about. He will read from Isaiah covering the future of the house of Israel. Jacob wants the people to know that God is in control and a wonderful future is ahead of them. Apparently the people maybe are to caught up in their troubles to see that the house of Israel will eventually come out on top and enjoy blessing they only can hope for. Knowing you will win in the end is a great motivator to keep faithful in spite of difficult circumstances.
2 Nephi 6:5 And now, the words which I shall read are they which Isaiah spake concerning all the house of Israel; wherefore, they may be likened unto you, for ye are of the house of Israel. And there are many things which have been spoken by Isaiah which may be likened unto you, because ye are of the house of Israel.
Jacob reads from Isaiah because Isaiah covered all points concerning it’s history from beginning to end. And since the Nephites are of the house of Israel, Isaiah’s words apply to them as well.
