As Nephi continues his exegesis of Isaiah, he shows how Yahweh’s acts will foster the great changes that have been predicted. Blessing all of the earth under Abraham’s spiritual fatherhood will follow Yahweh’s demonstration of his power and outreach to humankind. The image of Yahweh baring his arm suggests a work that will communicate his direct involvement in human affairs.
In verse 11 Nephi explains that “making bare the arm” means, first, bringing the gospel to all people, including Israel. Then, Yahweh will further display his concern and care by bringing Israel out of captivity (v. 12) and restoring it to the lands of its inheritance. The visual image of the bared arm is one that is ready for work. The gathering of Israel may be miraculous, but it is also the result of some labor.
Even in Joseph Smith’s day, the fulfillment of this prophecy lay in the future. From our perspective, however, this prophecy has been fulfilled. The nation of Israel again occupies its traditional homeland. Preaching the gospel among the nations of the world continues the baring of Yahweh’s arm. The Saints are agents of this prophecy’s continued fulfillment.