The second precept given by Moroni was that if there is no faith among the children of men, God can do no miracle (v. 12). Mormon had also taught that precept in his great sermon to the faithful members of the Church (see Mormon 7:37–38). Moroni gives four examples to support his precept. The account of Alma and Amulek verify that “the Lord had granted unto them power, according to their faith which was in Christ’ (Alma 14:28; see also vv. 26–27). The Lamanites baptisms of fire and the Holy Ghost was the second example supporting the miracle precept. It was also verified by the record. Aminadab, a Nephite dissenter among them, had instructed them to “cry into the voice, even until you have faith in Christ.” They followed his advice and were soon “encircled about yea, every soul, by a pillar of fire (Helaman 5:41–43). The third example was Ammon and his brethren, the sons of Mosiah, preaching among the Lamanites and converting thousands. The miracles were many and those converted exercised faith, but it was by their faith that the Lord would make them instruments in his hands and that led their father to ask the Lord if they should go on their mission in the first place. The Lord told Mosiah to let them go and promised to deliver them. The Lord’s promises were fulfilled (see Mosiah 28:1–8).
The general statement is given by Moroni that miracles of faith were wrought after the time of Christ as well as before. He had given three examples that had happened before the time of Christ. He then gave an example of a miracle after the time of Christ. The transfiguration of the three Nephite disciples (apostles) who would not taste of death (Ether 12:17) happened after the time of Christ. The text does not directly state that it was their faith that brought about their changed condition or transfiguration, but their desire and the promise of being able to appear to whomever they wanted is indication of their faith (3 Nephi 28:6; 30–31). Moroni concludes with an all-inclusive statement that all miracles come through faith and believing in the Son of God (Ether 12:18).