There are many reasons why we in the true Church send out missionaries. First and foremost is to make the blessings of the gospel-the covenants and saving ordinances in particular-available to all of our Heavenly Father’s children. Second, the labor of selfless service associated with missionary work builds a saintly character and a stability of soul in the missionary that proves an invaluable asset to the kingdom of God. Third, we preach the gospel as a way of warning the nations of that which is to come.
“ Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor. Therefore, they are left without excuse, and their sins are upon their own heads.” (D&C 88:81-82.) Further: “Let your preaching be the warning voice, every man to his neighbor, in mildness and in meekness” (D&C 38:41). Alma was lo return to Ammonihah lo lift a warning voice, to declare with words of soberness that a speedy and certain destruction awaited the people there if they did not repent.