This is the fourth time since the Savior's visit that the Book of Mormon warns the Gentiles to repent (see 3 Nephi 16:15; 20:15-17; 21:12-21). The scriptures do not repeat a concept four times as an idle threat. The Gentiles will reject the gospel and will suffer according to the word of the Lord, for the rejection of the gospel by the Gentiles is prophesied elsewhere (DC 45:28-30). Their rejection of the truth marks the fulfillment of the times of the Gentiles (DC 45:30). Of this warning to the Gentiles, Mark E. Petersen said, "Can we ignore such a warning, directed specifically at this generation?" (Ensign, Nov. 1978, "The Last Words of Moroni")