What could be a better, more concise statement of parting counsel than this? Disciples of the Lord, missionaries called to serve, and members who are of the seed of Abraham have the joyful and ever-present calling to share the gospel. Mormon expressed it this way: “Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life” (3 Nephi 5:13). We that are warned are to warn our neighbors (see D&C 88:81), for often times they know not where to find the truth (see D&C 123:12). As we open our mouths, the word of the Lord will help us share the gospel (see D&C 33:8–11). The Lord will go before our face and teach us what we need to say to our listeners (see D&C 84:85–88). We have no need to fear. We can “look to God and live” (Alma 37:47). We just need to feel the urgency and the desire for the welfare of the souls of our fellow men (see Mosiah 28:3; Alma 29:9–10; D&C 15:6; 18:10–16; 31:5). We stand under condemnation if we don’t open our mouths (see D&C 60:2–3). As we bear testimony, it is recorded in heaven; the angels rejoice, and our sins are forgiven (see D&C 62:3). Helaman is counseled to declare the word and to be sober. The same applies to all of us: to declare the word in truth and soberness that we might bring souls unto repentance so that the great plan of mercy might have claim upon them. To be sober in the spiritual sense refers to being serious, solemn-minded, calm, temperate, and living a righteous and godly life—wonderful advice and counsel for us all.
The commandments of Alma to his son Shiblon. [Note: This preamble was included in the original edition of the Book of Mormon published in 1830.]