In the previous verses, the Savior has addressed the multitude and taught them generally. At this point he directs his instructions to the twelve whom he has chosen to he a “light” unto the people.
Just as Jesus is the “light of the world,” the Perfect Exemplar, he is admonishing these twelve to lead, serve, teach, and testify just as he would. As they follow him, they can then become “lights” unto the people, even as Jesus is. Their words and deeds thus become his. With this backdrop, the Savior begins his doctrinal teaching to the Twelve concerning the position of the Nephites and Lamanites in the house of Israel and of his ministry to the “other sheep.”