21 And it came to pass that after this manner of language did I persuade my brethren, that they might be faithful in keeping the commandments of God.
This is the Lord’s way of getting people to obey. He will persuade and encourage, but He will not force people to be faithful. Nephi’s efforts to get cooperation from his brothers were consistent with the direction we receive in D&C 121:41—43. He doesn’t pull rank on them; he’s the youngest brother. In verse 15 he put his foot down and told them they needed to finish the job, but even that couldn’t be considered forcing them to obey.
