Structural analysis: This verse begins chapter 3 in the first edition of the Book of Mormon, and is a fitting beginning to a new section. In this verse Nephi clearly indicates that the information to this point in the Book of Mormon has been following a stronger pattern of reporting the events initiated by his father (though not recognizing the personalization of those events as we have examined them). Nephi has just ended (in our current chapter 9) his discussion of the purpose of the small plates, and indicates in this verse his intention to turn to that purpose in earnest. These small plates are now unavoidably "an account. . . of my proceedings, and my reign and ministry".
As with much of the material to this point in the Book of Mormon, Nephi's story is still bound up in the story of his father. Even with this declaration that the events to be discussed are intimately personal, Nephi finds that they have no context without providing a background of his father's experience and words.
Historical information: Nephi clearly points out that he serves a dual role in this early community in the new world. Nephi is both ruler and spiritual leader, as indicated by the dual "reign and ministry". This is an understandable outgrowth of the character he developed throughout their struggles, and the leadership he provided in spiritual matters. It is important to remember that for the early Lehites, spiritual matters and physical survival were all rolled up into a single concern, as it was the spiritual undercurrent which drove all of the necessities of their physical existence from the time revelation directed them to leave Jerusalem to the time that divine guidance brought them to a new and unknown land.