The bands of her neck are the curses of God upon her and the remnants of Israel in their scattered condition among the Gentiles.” Israel sold their birthright for a thing of nought (mess of pottage) and will be redeemed “without money.” (vs.38) The Lord’s people know the Lord’s name. Knowing the Lord’s name is to enter into a covenant relationship with Him. (Think how baptism involves taking upon our selves the name of Christ and how the endowment utilizes names.) In essence the Lord’s people, Israel, become endowed. Israel will know of certainty the Lord has spoken, is speaking and will speak to them. (vs.39) At that time Isaiah’s prophecy about “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings…,” reaches fulfillment. Abinadi explains this prophecy in Mosiah 15:13-20 and applies it to many generations both past and future. When Christ refers to it in 3 Nephi 20 He is referring to its final fulfillment in the last days. (vs.40) “Then”, (suggesting after the events described prior occur a cry goes forth to all the Lord’s people to “Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch not that which is unclean; go ye out of the midst of her: (the “her” referenced here is likely the whore of all the earth, Babylon, the whore of the earth). The Lord admonishes His servants to “be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” (vs.41) The servants of God will not go out hastily or swiftly. The Lord goes before them to prepare the way for their efforts. He guards their “rearward” so He has both their front and back protected in this work. (vs.42) As the servant of God go forward they deal “prudently” which means:
1. Wise in handling practical matters; exercising good judgment or common sense.
2. Careful in regard to one's own interests; provident.
3. Careful about one's conduct; circumspect.
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