The focus of this entire section of Jesus’ experience with the people is on the written texts. He expounds the scriptures that they do have, and now focuses on the importance of the living record. It is easy to presume that scriptures are things that were written a long time ago. In this particular instance, the Lord tells the Nephites that there are scriptures that are recent, and within the lifetime and memory of those present. The scriptures are not the words of the past, but they are the words of the living oracles as well.