“Wherefore” refers to the consecration of the Jacob’s afflictions to his gain, with “wherefore” introducing Lehi’s explanation of that benefit. Because of Jacob’s faith-filled response to his afflictions, he will be blessed by a safe dwelling with Nephi and a life in Yahweh’s service. This promise is borne out as Nephi’s quotations from Jacob’s teachings attest (2 Ne. 6–11).
Lehi next shifts the focus from Jacob’s character to the Atoning Messiah and his mission. While this transition occurs naturally, given the discussion of Jacob’s character and his subsequent blessing, it nevertheless signals the beginning of the sermon.
Reference: “Fulness of time” in this verse echoes that same phrase in Galatians: “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son… ” (Gal. 4:4).