With the opening statements pointing to the beginnings of their journeys, and the hand of the Lord in those journeys, Lehi continues to tell them their own story. While he mentions the rebellions on the seas, it is most likely done so that the "mercies of God in sparing their lives" might be highlighted. Lehi's purpose in his introduction is to place their family in the context of a God who is watching over them, and who has designs for them, and through Lehi, admonitions and blessings for them.