1 Nephi 10:17-EoC

Nephi learns that his father, Lehi, has seen these marvelous visions through the power of the Holy Ghost, which power is received by faith on the Son of God. The Bible Dictionary entry on faith has an excellent and concise description of this principle of action and power (see BD Faith). Remember that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first principle and ordinance of the gospel (see Fourth Article of Faith). Nephi has this same faith as his father. He expresses that when he heard the words of his father, he had the desire and faith to see those things for himself.

At the end of Verse 17 and 18, Nephi testifies that the Holy Ghost is a gift of God, and will always come to those who diligently seek Him. I know that this is true, too. If someone is diligently seeking God, in the right mindset, then he will be directed to the truth. For example, in a missionary discussion, the Holy Ghost can testify strongly about the restored gospel, and the seeker will feel it. Nephi also testifies that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. This is a great statement. He has a knowledge about this because his vision encompasses the beginning and the end of the earth, and probably more. I'm thinking that Nephi saw a lot of God's works just as Moses did (see Moses 1:4). We are about to see that he saw the earth that he was created on from beginning to end as Moses did, too (see Moses 1:8).

Next, Nephi testifies that for all those who diligently seeketh shall find, even those who seek to know the mysteries of God. I think that there are many mysteries of God that can be found through diligent study of the scriptures. They testify of truths given to various peoples of the earth. I'm sure too, that we can learn of further mysteries of God through a vision like Nephi's. But, could we ask to have one if we haven't studied the words of God that we have now?

Verse 20 warns us that all the things we do here on earth will be brought to the judgement. If ye seek to do wickedly all your days, you will not be able to dwell with God because no unclean thing can enter into his presence, and you will be cast off forever. Nephi finishes the chapter with the affirmation that he added the last bit in because the Holy Ghost had given him authority to, and he cannot deny.