Question
Gramps,
Do you have any idea what groups of people constitute the “literal gathering of Israel?”
Tara
Answer
Tara,
At the heart of the gathering of Israel lies the covenant established by God with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant is foundational to understanding the identity of the house of Israel, which includes not only the Jews but also the Gentiles who accept the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon emphasizes that the gathering is not merely a physical return to a geographic location but a spiritual return to God through faith in Christ. As stated in 3 Nephi 21:24-26, the gathering involves the Gentiles assisting the natural descendants of Israel in their return to the faith, highlighting the interconnectedness of all believers in the covenant community.
The Book of Mormon serves as a critical witness to the gathering of Israel, asserting that the coming forth of this scripture is a sign of the gathering’s commencement. In 3 Nephi 29:1-2, it is prophesied that as the Book of Mormon reaches the Gentiles, the covenant with Israel will begin to be fulfilled, indicating that the gathering is an ongoing process rather than a singular event. This scripture invites readers to recognize the significance of the Book of Mormon in the context of the gathering, as it provides a means for individuals to reconnect with their spiritual heritage.
The gathering of Israel also includes the Gentiles who accept the gospel. In the context of the Book of Mormon, Gentiles are invited to become part of the house of Israel through baptism and faith in Christ. This adoption into the covenant community is a central theme, as seen in Galatians 3:26-29, which states that all who are baptized into Christ are heirs to the promises made to Abraham. Thus, the gathering is inclusive, offering a path for all who seek to follow Christ, regardless of their ancestral lineage.
Historically, the gathering of Israel has been associated with the return of the Jewish people to their ancestral homeland. This phenomenon, known as aliyah, has seen waves of Jewish immigration to Israel, particularly in the late 19th and 20th centuries. The Balfour Declaration of 1917 and subsequent events have facilitated this return, fulfilling ancient prophecies regarding the restoration of Israel. The Book of Mormon aligns with these historical events, suggesting that the physical gathering of Israel is part of a divine plan that includes both the Jews and the descendants of Lehi.
The concept of Zion extends beyond Jerusalem to include America, which is often referred to as the “New Zion” in Latter-day Saint theology. This idea is rooted in the belief that the establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in America represents a continuation of God’s covenant with His people. As President Spencer W. Kimball stated, “The gathering of Israel consists of joining the true church and their coming to a knowledge of the covenants of the Lord.” This perspective emphasizes that Zion is not confined to a single geographic location but encompasses all places where the faithful gather in worship and service.
Looking ahead, the gathering of Israel is expected to culminate in the establishment of a new Jerusalem, as prophesied in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon. This new Jerusalem will serve as a center for worship and a gathering place for the faithful. The construction of temples, both in Jerusalem and in the New Jerusalem in Missouri, is seen as a vital part of this process. These temples will symbolize the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people and serve as places of refuge and spiritual renewal.
The gathering of Israel embodies both spiritual and physical dimensions, reflecting the holistic nature of God’s covenant with His people. The spiritual gathering involves individuals coming to Christ and embracing the gospel, while the physical gathering encompasses the return of the Jewish people to their homeland and the establishment of Zion in various locations, including America. This duality is essential for understanding the comprehensive nature of the gathering as presented in the scriptures.
Central to the gathering is the principle of repentance and faith. The Book of Mormon teaches that the scattered remnants of Israel will be gathered as they return to the worship of the Lord Jehovah. This theme is echoed in the prophecies of Isaiah and Jeremiah, which emphasize the need for the people to turn back to God in order to be restored to their lands of inheritance. The gathering is thus contingent upon the willingness of individuals to embrace their spiritual heritage and live according to God’s commandments.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints plays a pivotal role in the gathering of Israel by sharing the message of the gospel and inviting all to partake in the blessings of the covenant. Through missionary work and community outreach, the Church seeks to fulfill its divine mandate to gather Israel, both spiritually and physically. This mission is not limited to the descendants of Israel but extends to all who seek truth and desire to follow Christ.
Gramps
