But now comes the description of the obliteration of the wicked in America when the Savior was crucified in Jerusalem. There was a universal convulsion and total disruption of the terrain of the entire American continent. Some of the people were swallowed up in the gaping cavities that opened in the crust of the earth. Others were crushed or smothered to death under crumbling mountains that shifted from their foundations and swept down upon the multitudes in the valleys. In the cities on the plains the people were crushed and killed by stone buildings as they collapsed and turned the streets in shambles. There was also the consuming lightning streaking down from heaven and volcanic fire belching up from the interior of the earth.
Just the memory of the scenes which Nephi had beheld in his vision caused him to shudder with terrifying horror as he thought of it. But, nevertheless, he knew people had rejected the appeal of their God and his prophets to repent and prepare for the Savior's ministry on the earth. What happened to the wicked is what a loving God is required to do when it comes the time for the administration of justice.