The previous verse noted that Nephi had become “their ruler and teacher” according to prophecy. This prophecy of rulership was given in the Old World (1 Ne. 2:19–22) and had been a stated point of contention between the brothers prior to their departure for the New World (1 Ne. 16:37). This issue is what caused the separation of Nephites and Lamanites (2 Ne. 5:3). When Nephi indicates that he has fulfilled the prophecy that he would rule, his mind had to move to his brethren, the Lamanites, who were no longer with them. Nephi rules, but not over those rebellious brothers. For the sake of literary continuity, he repeats the prophecy that those brothers would be cut off so that he can elucidate its fulfillment.