Amulek was a convert from the upper social class (v. 4). His financial success had apparently not required him to turn to the Lord for help, but the Lord had been working on him anyway (v. 5). This writer has heard some teachers use verse five as an example of Mormon not being able to erase on a metal plate. However, it is more probable that the Lord wanted it worded as it is because it is so true to everyone’s life. The Spirit prompts us periodically, but does not force in any way. As Amulek wrote that he had never known the ways of the Lord, the Spirit may have brought into his mind the many times he had been called but ignored the promptings (v. 6). It is certainly the case with this writer, and it is his belief that all people have similar experiences depending on their responses to the promptings. May the reader stop and reflect on his or her life and note how the Lord has directed, or attempted to do so.
The date given by Amulek (v. 6) is the time when he had a vision and was told to receive Alma and take him to his house (see Alma 8:20). He tells the story in more detail below.