This expression derives from the prophetic writings of Isaiah concerning the last days and the Second Coming: “Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God” (Isaiah 52:9–10; compare Isaiah 40:5).
Just prior to the parting of the Red Sea, Moses had spoken a portion of this phrase when the Israelites feared the oncoming assault of Pharaoh’s army: “And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:13–14).
Nephi echoed a variation of the expression generations before the time of Abinadi: “Yea, and all the earth shall see the salvation of the Lord, saith the prophet; every nation, kindred, tongue and people shall be blessed” (see 1 Nephi 19:17). The wicked priests of King Noah unwisely raise this same expression in an attempt to cross Abinadi (see Mosiah 12:24). Abinadi turns the expression back upon their heads twice during his fervent call to repentance (see Mosiah 15:31; 16:1). The Savior Himself brings forth this exact expression to assure His listeners at Bountiful that the word of the Lord given through Isaiah will be fulfilled in the last days (see 3 Nephi 16:17–20).
“All shall see the salvation of the Lord” has a bipolar consequence: joy for the faithful and righteous, fear and anguish for the wicked. It reflects redemption and exaltation as well as condemnation and damnation—depending upon the level of obedience and acceptance of gospel principles demonstrated in the life of each individual.