Mormon desired for the remnants of the Nephites and the Lamanites—they are both of the house of Israel—to know four things. The Lamanites are seeking his life, but he still keeps an eternal perspective. He is also still reliant upon God in spite of the anguish of his soul “because of the slain of my people” (Mormon 6:16).
First of all, Mormon wants them to know that they are of the house of Israel (Mormon 7:2). Great covenants were made between God and Abraham concerning his posterity, and they are of his seed (see Abraham 2:8–11; Genesis 12:2–3).
Secondly, Mormon wants them to know that they must repent or they cannot be saved (Mormon 7:3). It is not enough to just be one of the covenant people. To paraphrase Alma, “it shall be more tolerable for [a non-Israelite] in the day of judgment than for an [Israelite], if you remain in your sins” (Alma 9:15).
Thirdly, Mormon wants them to lay down their weapons of war unless God commands otherwise (Mormon 7:4). He is admonishing them to learn the law of war that was taught to their ancestors (see Alma 43:45–47), and would be more fully taught to them in latter-day revelation if they will come unto Jesus (see D&C 98:33–38).
Fourthly, Mormon wants them to know of their fathers and of Jesus Christ (Mormon 7:5). “Great were the covenants of the Lord which he made unto Joseph who was sold into Egypt” (2 Nephi 3:4). The knowledge of their fathers would bring them to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and through faith in him they could be saved. To have faith in him requires a knowledge that he is the Son of God, that he gained victory over death by bringing about the resurrection (Mormon 7:5–6). Christ also brought redemption to the world through his Atonement, and all men must come before the judgment-seat of Christ and be judged. If they are found guiltless through their compliance with the conditions of the Atonement, they could dwell in the presence of God in his kingdom, and sing with the heavenly choirs in praising the three members of the Godhead. Eternal happiness would then be theirs (v. 7). “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it, which course is virtue, faith, and keeping all the commandments of God” (TPJS, 255). Mormon wanted his people to enjoy that happiness eternally.