Part 4: The Nauvoo Temple, Elijah and the Unfinished Restoration

This information is given to further support some of the ideas I have put forth in part 3.

Introduction

In April 1842, the Prophet said: “The Church is not fully organized, in its proper order, and cannot be, until the Temple is completed, where places will be provided for the administration of the ordinances of the Priesthood." (History of the Church, 4:603; from a discourse given by Joseph Smith on Apr. 28, 1842, in Nauvoo, Illinois; reported by Eliza R. Snow)

The Nauvoo temple was not completed prior to the death of Joseph Smith. The reason, according to Joseph (see Nauvoo discourses in Words of Joseph Smith) was that the Saints thought that building brick houses, a masonic temple, and other speculations were of higher importance than giving their time and money to the temple. Joseph repeatedly warned that there was a time given by the Lord for them to build the temple, and, as the Lord said in D&C 124, if the Saints didn't fulfill the commission in time, they would lose the opportunity to gain the promised blessings.

"I will now ask this assembly and all the Saints if you will now build this house and receive the ordinances and blessings which God has in store for you; or will you not build unto the Lord this house, and let Him pass by and bestow these blessings upon another people? I pause for a reply." (June 11, 1843.) DHC 5:423-427. TPJS p312

Joseph remained focused on this goal, and spoke very strongly about the decisions the Saints were making:

"I never shall forget the words he spoke on the first Sunday after I came to Nauvoo. The temple was built a few feet above the ground. While preaching he pointed towards it and said, 'The Lord has commanded us to build that temple. We want to build it, but we have not the means. There are people in this city who have the means, but they will not let us have them. What shall we do with such people? I say damn them!' and then he sat down." (recollection of Elder William E. Jones)

Joseph was murdered before the temple was completed. We hear a lot about how "the temple was completed." This is strictly true, as the temple was finally dedicated before it was destroyed. However, the details are important and frequently glossed over.

Nauvoo Temple Timeline
I've compiled the following timeline from "Nauvoo Temple History" by David R. Crockett.

1841 Nov - The basement rooms were enclosed and a temporary roof was constructed.  A temporary wooden font resting on twelve wooden oxen was used for baptisms.
1844 Jun - At the time of the martyrdom, the walls were not yet built up to the final height.
1845 May - Walls completed. The Saints conduct a hosanna shout. The interior was not at all finished, the attic level was not framed, roof not shingled.
1845 Oct - General conference held in the temple. Temporary floors and chairs used, as the real ones were not finished. Brigham Young partially dedicated the partially completed temple.
1845 Nov - Attic level dedicated. The rest of the interior was unfinished, and the attic level was not furnished or organized. The attic level was then used for endowments.
1845 Feb - Brigham ceases the ordinances in the temple. After this date, no ordinances are conducted in the Nauvoo temple. Note only the attic was finished at this time. The Saints began moving west. Before leaving, members of the 12 prayed in the temple that the Lord would "bless their move to the west and asked Him to enable them to complete the temple and have it formally dedicated" as it was not yet "formally dedicated." The day after this, the roof caught fire.
1846 Feb - Floor cracks under weight, some smash windows to make it out of the building. All 12 except for Orson Hyde were now gone from Nauvoo. He is charged to watch over the temple.
1846 Apr - General conference held in basement of temple, as the other floors were still being worked on. At the end of the month the carpenters reported finishing the woodwork in the building. The brethren make plans to sell the temple. Joseph Young dedicated the temple in private.
1846 May - A public dedication was held with a one dollar cover charge. Orson Hyde states "If we moved forward and finished this house we should be received and accepted as a church with our dead, but if not we should be rejected with our dead.  These things have inspired and stimulated us to action in the finishing of it which through the blessing of God we have been enabled to accomplish and prepared it for dedication.  In doing this we have only been saved as it were by the skin of our teeth." Elders Hyde and Woodruff, the last apostles in Nauvoo, leave for SLC.
1846 Jun - The mob takes over the temple. "Holes have been cut through the floors, the stone oxen in the basement have been considerably disfigured, horns and ears dislodged, and nearly all torn loose from their standing."
1846 Sept - Lightning strikes the steeple of the temple.
1848 Oct - The temple burns down.
1849 Mar - The temple is sold by the church to another church.
1859 May - A cyclone knocks down the north wall of the charred ruins, leaving only part of the west wall standing. The stones are used to build other buildings.

Though one can say "the temple was finished," it was not ever used for ordinances in its finished state. But this is not the most notable issue with the Nauvoo temple. The most notable issue was the utter lack of anything happening in the Nauvoo temple, complete or otherwise, that Joseph frequently taught was necessary to happen in the Nauvoo temple.

Was the Restoration Completed?
Frequently, we hear people in the church say, "the gospel was restored through Joseph Smith." Did Joseph complete his assigned mission? Do we have everything that God has promised to give before the Second Coming?

Some have taught, since at least the time of John Taylor's tenure as President, that Joseph Smith restored the fullness of the gospel, meaning everything that ever pertained to previous dispensations. It is also commonly understood that God, through Joseph (and, according to some, others) everything has been given that is required to be received before the Second Coming. What would it mean if that claim was not true? How would we be inclined to act differently as individuals and as a community if we did not yet possess what we need to in order to be prepared for the Second Coming? How would that challenge the common narrative? My goal here is to lay out a case that God has told us that more is needed before we are prepared for the Second Coming. Much of that case rests on the idea that Elijah has not yet revealed the priesthood, as Joseph and others foretold he would.

John Taylor taught,

"How perfect it was in the days of Enoch we are not told, but everything that they had revealed to them pertaining to the organization of the Church of God, also pertaining to doctrine and ordinances, we have had revealed to us, excepting one thing, and that is the principle and power of translation; that, however, will in due  time be restored also."  (John Taylor JD 23 p 28).

This quote provides us with two points. First, we can dismiss out of hand the notion that God has revealed to us all that we need for the Second Coming, or all the power that he gives to men on earth, as John Taylor points out one obvious exception: the keys to translation.

Do we have any other sources which indicate something that was promised to be restored, but has not yet been restored? We do. Here are some passages of interest, with a bullet list following each which enumerates what has been promised but not fulfilled.

``it is generally supposed that Sacrifice was entirely done away when the great sacrifice was offered up—and that there will be no necessity for the ordinance of Sacrifice in future, but those who assert this, are certainly not acquainted with the duties, privileges and authority of the priesthood. or with the prophets The offering of Sacrifice has ever been connected and forms a part of the duties of the priesthood. It began with the priesthood and will be continued until after the coming of Christ from generation to generation—We frequently have mention made of the offering of Sacrifice by the servants of the most high in ancient days prior to the law of moses, which ordinances will be continued when the priesthood is restored with all its authority power and blessings. Elijah was the last prophet that held the keys of this priesthood, and who will, before the last dispensation, restore the authority and delive[r] the Keys of this priesthood in order that all the ordinances may be attended to in righteousness.'' ("Words of Joseph Smith", 5 Oct 1840)

• Animal sacrifice.
• A future return of Elijah, with priesthood keys.

``the offring of Sacrifice which also shall be continued at the last time, for all the ordinances and duties that ever have been required by the priesthood under the direction and commandments of the Almighty in the last dispensation at the end thereof in any of the dispensations, shall all be had in the last dispensation. Therefore all things had under the Authority of the Priesthood at any former period shall be had again—bringing to pass the restoration spoken of by the mouth of all the Holy Prophets.'' (Words of Joseph Smith)

"For there is not a place found on earth that he may come to and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which he hath taken away, even the fulness of the priesthood." (D&C 124:28, given Jan 19, 1841, long after Kirtland). 

"It will be necessary here to make a few observations on the doctrine, set forth in the above quotation, As it is generally supposed that Sacrifice was entirely done away when the great sacrife was offered up---and that there will be no necessity for the ordinance of Sacrifice in future, but those who assert this, are certainly not aquainted with the duties, privileges and authority of the priesthood. or with the prophets The offering of Sacrifice has ever been connected and forms a part of the duties of the priesthood. It began with the prieshood and will be continued untill after the coming of Christ from generation to generation---We freequently have mention made of the offering of Sacrifice by the servants of the most high in antient days prior to the law of moses, See which ordinances will be continued when the priesthood is restored with all its authority power and blessings. Elijah was the last prophet that held the keys of this priesthood, and who will, before the last dispensation, restore the authority and delive[r] the Keys of this priesthood in order that all the ordinances may be attended to in righteousness." (Words of Joseph Smith, 5 Oct 1840)

• Animal sacrifice, as well as any other ordinance or duty that has ever been required by the priesthood.

``It is a very prevalent opinion that in the sacrifices of sacrifices which were offered were entirely consumed, this was not the case if you read Leviticus [2] Chap [2-3] verses you will observe that the priests took a part as a memorial and offered it up before the Lord, while the remainder was kept for the benefit maintenance of the priests. So that the offerings and sacrifices are not all consumed upon the Alter, but the blood is sprinkled and the fat and certain other portions are consumed These sacrifices as well as every ordinance belonging to the priesthood will when the temple of the Lord shall be built and the Sons Levi be purified be fully restored and attended to then all their powers  ramifications and blessings—this the Sons of Levi shall be purified. ever was and will exist when the powers of the Melchisid Priesthood are sufficientIy manifest. Else how can the restitution of all things spoken of by all the Holy Prophets be brought to pass be brought to pass It is not to be understood that, the law of moses will be established again with all it rights and variety of ceremonies, ceremonies, this had never been spoken off by the prophets but those things which existed prior Mose's day viz Sacrifice will be continued—It may be asked by some what necessity for Sacrifice since the great Sacrifice was offered? In answer to which if Repentance Baptism and faith were necessary to Salvation existed prior to the days of Christ what necessity for them since that time.'' (Words of Joseph Smith)

• Animal sacrifices and any other ordinance or duty that has ever been required of the priesthood.
• The building of a temple where animal sacrifice will be done.
• The restoration of the temple service of the Levites.

``The dispensation of the fulness of times will bring to light the things that have been revealed in all former dispensations, also other things that have not been before revealed. He shall send Elijah the prophet &c., and restore all things in Christ.'' (Words of Joseph Smith, 3  October  1841)

• A return of Elijah, who will be the one through whom "all things" are restored.

"Elijah was the last Prophet that held the keys of the Priesthood, and who will, before the last dispensation, restore the authority and deliver the keys of the Priesthood, in order that all ordinances may be attended to in righteousness...'And I will send Elijah the Prophet before the great and terrible day of the Lord,' etc., etc. Why send Elijah? Because he holds the keys of the authority to administer in all the ordinances of the Priesthood; and without the authority is given, the ordinances could not be administered in righteousness." (HC 4:207-212)

• A return of Elijah, who will "restore the authority and deliver the keys of the Priesthood" 

"...it is generally supposed that sacrifice was entirely done away when the Great Sacrifice the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus was offered up...but those who assert this are certainly not acquainted with the duties, privileges and authority of the Priesthood, or with the Prophets. .... These sacrifices, as well as every ordinance belonging to the Priesthood, will, when the Temple of the Lord shall be built, and the sons of Levi be purified, be fully restored and attended to in all their powers, ramifications, and blessings....else how can the restitution of all things spoken of by the Holy Prophets be brought to pass[?]"

• The resumption of "every ordinance belonging to the Priesthood", including animal sacrifice.
• The return of Levites doing temple service.
• A temple where these things can take place.

 ``how shall god come to the rescue of this generation. he shall send Elijah law revealed to Moses in Horeb—never was revealed to the C. of Israel and he shall reveal the covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the fathers. 11—anointing & sealing—called elected and made sure 12 without father &c. 13 a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods.—and not by descent from father and mother 14'' (Words of Joseph Smith, 27 Aug 1843)

• Elijah will reveal covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children.
• He will reveal "a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods and not by descent from father and mother" and some tie to anointing and sealing and calling and election, which is tied to the fathers.

"The world is reserved unto burning in the last days—he shall send Elijah the prophet. and he shall reveal the covenants of the fathers in relation to the children.—and the children and the covenants of the children in relation to the fathers." (WoJS 13 Aug 1843)

• Elijah will come to reveal the covenants of the fathers in relation to their children as well as covenants of the children in relation to the fathers.

Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming. (Moroni's version of Malachi 4:5-6) "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse." (Malachi 4:5-6)

• Elijah will come to reveal the promises made to the fathers, and the children's hearts will turn to their fathers so as to prevent the whole earth being wasted at his coming.
• These teachings will include the revelation of "the ordinances of his house" AND "the glories of His kingdom," which things cannot be taught and practiced outside of a temple. Thus, the endowment practiced in Brigham's administration (and the highly modified version practiced today) could not be what Joseph was referring to because a) these endowments had occurred previous to this quote, and b) they occurred outside the temple, such as in the red brick store.

"What was the object of gathering the Jews, or the people of God in any age of the world? I can never find much to say in expounding a text. A man never has half so much fuss to unlock a door, if he has a key, as though he had not, and had to cut it open with his jack-knife. The main object was to build unto the Lord a house whereby He could reveal unto His people the ordinances of His house and the glories of His kingdom, and teach the people the way of salvation; for there are certain ordinances and principles that, when they are taught and practiced, must be done in a place or house built for that purpose." (TPJS p308, 11 Jun 1843)

"As the Father hath power in Himself, so hath the Son power in Himself, to lay down His life and take it again, so He has a body of His own. The Son doeth what He hath seen the Father do: then the Father hath some day laid down His life and taken it again; so he has a body of His own; each one will be in His own body; and yet the sectarian world believe the body of the Son is identical with the Father's. Gods have an ascendency over the angels, who are ministering servants. In the resurrection, some are raised to be angels, others are raised to become Gods. These things are revealed in the most holy places in a Temple prepared for that purpose. Many of the sects cry out, "Oh, I have the testimony of Jesus; I have the spirit of God; but away with Joe Smith; he says he is a prophet; but there are to be no prophets or revelators in the last days." Stop, sir! The Revelator says that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy; so by your own mouth you are condemned. But to the text. Why gather the people together in this place? For the same purpose that Jesus wanted to gather the Jews---to receive the ordinances, the blessings, and glories that God has in store for His Saints." (TPJS p312)  

SUMMARY:

Here are all the above points in one list:

• Translation.
• Animal sacrifice.
• A future return of Elijah, with priesthood keys.
• Animal sacrifice, as well as any other ordinance or duty that has ever been required by the priesthood.
• Animal sacrifices and any other ordinance or duty that has ever been required of the priesthood.
• The building of a temple where animal sacrifice will be done.
• The restoration of the temple service of the Levites.
• A return of Elijah, who will be the one through whom "all things" are restored.
• A return of Elijah, who will "restore the authority and deliver the keys of the Priesthood" 
• The resumption of "every ordinance belonging to the Priesthood", including animal sacrifice, which are beyond what is contained in today's endowment.
• The return of Levites doing temple service.
• A temple where these things can take place
• Elijah will reveal covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children.
• He will reveal "a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods and not by descent from father and mother" and some tie to anointing and sealing and calling and election, which is tied to the fathers.
• Elijah will come to reveal the covenants of the fathers in relation to their children as well as covenants of the children in relation to the fathers.
• Elijah will come to reveal the promises made to the fathers, and the children's hearts will turn to their fathers so as to prevent the whole earth being wasted at his coming.

Let's now combine these points where possible:

1. Elijah will return to restore all things ever revealed, including:
1. A priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods and not by descent
2. The administration of the Levites in the temple, including animal sacrifice
3. The covenants made to the fathers will be offered to the children, which will turn the children's hearts into the hearts of the fathers.
2. A temple where these things can take place

Now let's analyze each of these in turn where there is something more to say.

1. ELIJAH WILL RETURN.
The official narrative tells us Elijah did return, and that this happened in Kirtland. Some dispute that Elijah actually came to Kirtland because:

• Joseph nor Oliver ever mentioned the Kirtland visit in their lifetimes.
• Joseph always referred to the return of Elijah as a future event, and spoke of it very often in Nauvoo.
• D&C 110 was added to the D&C much later.
• D&C 110's source was a manuscript revelation book. It was written in out of chronological order (at the end of the book).
• Elijah "says" in D&C 110 that Malachi's prophecy is fulfilled by that event, however, Moroni's version of Malachi 4 promises that Elijah will issue covenants to the people that will cause their hearts to be like the hearts of the fathers and will extend the promises made to the fathers to them. ("The fathers" will be analyzed below). The text of D&C 110 does not contain that event. It only contains the fulfillment of the common narrative, which is that Elijah gave Joseph Smith permission to do all the things we do in the church today with temples (though that isn't in the text, either). Note that he doesn't reveal any priesthood and that there is no mention of the Levites or animal sacrifice.

Of course, there is one more D&C mention of Elijah's return having already happened. The summary of section 128 says, "15-17, Elijah restored power relative to baptism for the dead; 18–21, All of the keys, powers, and authorities of past dispensations have been restored;" Let's analyze these verses line by line and see if we come to that conclusion.

 15 And now, my dearly beloved brethren and sisters, let me assure you that these are principles in relation to the dead and the living that cannot be lightly passed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says concerning the fathers—that they without us cannot be made perfect—neither can we without our dead be made perfect.

 16 And now, in relation to the baptism for the dead, I will give you another quotation of Paul, 1 Corinthians 15:29: Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead?
 17 And again, in connection with this quotation I will give you a quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, namely, the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, last chapter, verses 5th and 6th: Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

No mention yet of Elijah or any keys being passed. Now let's continue.

 18 I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other—and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; for it is necessary in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed from the days of Adam even to the present time. And not only this, but those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be revealed unto babes and sucklings in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times.

Q: Does this verse indicate that Elijah has come?
A: No. It says that if he doesn't come, the earth will be cursed. It also describes that a link has to be present.

 19 Now, what do we hear in the gospel which we have received? A voice of gladness! A voice of mercy from heaven; and a voice of truth out of the earth; glad tidings for the dead; a voice of gladness for the living and the dead; glad tidings of great joy. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those that bring glad tidings of good things, and that say unto Zion: Behold, thy God reigneth! As the dews of Carmel, so shall the knowledge of God descend upon them!

 20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfilment of the prophets—the book to be revealed. A voice of the Lord in the wilderness of Fayette, Seneca county, declaring the three witnesses to bear record of the book! The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light! The voice of Peter, James, and John in the wilderness between Harmony, Susquehanna county, and Colesville, Broome county, on the Susquehanna river, declaring themselves as possessing the keys of the kingdom, and of the dispensation of the fulness of times!

Q: Do these verses indicate that Elijah has come?
A: No. In fact, Elijah isn't mention even though Michael, Peter, James, John and Moroni are mentioned.

 21 And again, the voice of God in the chamber of old Father Whitmer, in Fayette, Seneca county, and at sundry times, and in divers places through all the travels and tribulations of this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! And the voice of Michael, the archangel; the voice of Gabriel, and of Raphael, and of divers angels, from Michael or Adam down to the present time, all declaring their dispensation, their rights, their keys, their honors, their majesty and glory, and the power of their priesthood; giving line upon line, precept upon precept; here a little, and there a little; giving us consolation by holding forth that which is to come, confirming our hope!

Q: Do these verses indicate that Elijah has come?
A: Again, there is no mention of Elijah. However, it does say that "divers angels" came "declaring their dispensation, their rights, their keys," etc. One could assume that if Elijah had come to restore his keys, he would have been included in this group. But can we just assume that this was the case?

1.1. A PRIESTHOOD TO BE REVEALED BY ELIJAH.
We learn at Church that the Aaronic priesthood was revealed through John the Baptist, and that Peter, James, and John restored the Melchezidek priesthood to Joseph Smith sometime after that. So this priesthood being revealed must be something other than what we understand to be the Aaronic and Melchezidek priesthoods. Is this possible? Are there any writings that suggest this is the case? Yes, there are.

``1st Levitical which was never able to administer a Blessing but only to bind heavy burdens which neither they nor their father able to bear 2 Abrahams Patriarchal power which is the greatest yet experienced in this church 3d That of Melchisedec who had still greater power even power of an endless life of which was our Lord Jesus Christ which also Abraham obtained by the offering of his son Isaac which was not the power of a Prophet nor apostle nor Patriarch only but of King & Priest 22 to God to open the windows of Heaven and pour out the peace & Law of endless Life to man 23 & No man can attain to the Joint heirship 24 with Jesus Christ with out being administered to by one having the same power & Authority of Melchisedec'' (Words of Joseph Smith, 27 Aug 1843)

What was this patriarchal power that was yet unexperienced in the church? Note that endowments and sealings had been performed for some time before this date. Some content that, although there were some who had been endowed and sealed, it was not a general practice. My counter to that is, why was it not a general practice? If Joseph wanted to, couldn't he have sealed and endowed anyone he wanted? Joseph already was told by God that whatever he sealed on earth would be sealed in heaven. He was already carrying out that privilege. Also recall that, although Joseph was killed before Elijah restored the patriarchal power, Brigham Young made the endowment and marriage sealing open to all members of the church before they left Nauvoo. So, either the patriarchal power was something different than the power to conduct plural sealings and endowment ordinances, or Brigham Young and subsequent leaders have been doing that without God's sanction. I don't see a third option.

Are there scriptures that refer to another priesthood? Yes. The refer to it as the Melchizedek priesthood, but it has clear distinctions to what we call the Melchizedek priesthood today.

JST Genesis 14 says:

 25 And Melchizedek lifted up his voice and blessed Abram.

 26 Now Melchizedek was a man of faith, who wrought righteousness; and when a child he feared God, and stopped the mouths of lions, and quenched the violence of fire.

 27 And thus, having been approved of God, he was ordained an high priest after the order of the covenant which God made with Enoch,

 28 It being after the order of the Son of God; which order came, not by man, nor the will of man; neither by father nor mother; neither by beginning of days nor end of years; but of God;

 29 And it was delivered unto men by the calling of his own voice, according to his own will, unto as many as believed on his name.

 30 For God having sworn unto Enoch and unto his seed with an oath by himself; that every one being ordained after this order and calling should have power, by faith, to break mountains, to divide the seas, to dry up waters, to turn them out of their course;

 31 To put at defiance the armies of nations, to divide the earth, to break every band, to stand in the presence of God; to do all things according to his will, according to his command, subdue principalities and powers; and this by the will of the Son of God which was from before the foundation of the world.

32 And men having this faith, coming up unto this order of God, were translated and taken up into heaven.

What are the features of this priesthood?

• It is given via a covenant directly from God to the individual, by his own voice.
• It does not come by the will of man (including priesthood leaders) nor by inheritance, but by God himself. This is a key that ties it into the prophecy of what Elijah was going to restore (see above).
• EVERY ONE being ordained to it will have power to break mountains, divide seas, etc.
• EVERY ONE being ordained to it will stand in the presence of God.
• Men "coming up unto this order of God were translated and taken up into heaven."

Was this list of fruits seen in Nauvoo, before, or since? When was the last time you saw a "high priest" command the waters or put at defiance an army? When was the last time you met a high priest who stands in the presence of God, or is translated?

Note that this is the priesthood referred to in the "Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood" which actually requires an oath and a covenant, not simply an interview and ordination at the hands of men. D&C 84 says: 

40 Therefore, all those who receive the priesthood, receive this oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. 41 But whoso breaketh this covenant after he hath received it, and altogether turneth therefrom, shall not have forgiveness of sins in this world nor in the world to come. 42 And wo unto all those who come not unto this priesthood which ye have received, which I now confirm upon you who are present this day, by mine own voice out of the heavens; and even I have given the heavenly hosts and mine angels charge concerning you.

So the "higher priesthood" in D&C 84 seems to be the same one talked about that Elijah would reveal. The oath and covenant are given by the Father (see v40 above), not a man. Also note that this group (in 1832) are told by Christ that he confirms this priesthood upon them at that time (v42). 

1.2. ANIMAL SACRIFICE.
I don't have anything further to add on this, except to note that animal sacrifice requires fresh ("living") water to wash the animal in before killing it. The Nauvoo temple originally had a well in the basement, which isn't a smoking gun as the baptistery required water, but is interesting nevertheless.

1.3 THE COVENANTS MADE TO THE FATHERS.
This is very important. Let's start at who the fathers were.

Abraham 1:31
"But the records of the fathers, even the patriarchs..."

Abraham 1:2
2 And, finding there was greater happiness and peace and rest for me, I sought for the blessings of the fathers, and the right whereunto I should be ordained to administer the same; having been myself a follower of righteousness, desiring also to be one who possessed great knowledge, and to be a greater follower of righteousness, and to possess a greater knowledge, and to be a father of many nations, a prince of peace, and desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God, I became a rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the right belonging to the fathers. [These are blessings of the faithful and chosen of God, not blessings automatically dispensed to random sires of children]

Abraham 1:31
31 But the records of the fathers, even the patriarchs [NOTE: Not his apostate dad!], concerning the right of Priesthood, the Lord my God preserved in mine own hands; therefore a knowledge of the beginning of the creation, and also of the planets, and of the stars, as they were made known unto the fathers, have I kept even unto this day, and I shall endeavor to write some of these things upon this record, for the benefit of my posterity that shall come after me.

Romans 9:4-5
"Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen." 

"The spirit, power, and calling of Elijah is, that ye have power to hold the key of the revelations, ordinances, oracles, powers and endowments of the fulness of the Melchizedek Priesthood and of the kingdom of God on the earth; and to receive, obtain, and perform all the ordinances belonging to the kingdom of God, even unto the turning of the hearts of the fathers unto the children, and the hearts of the children unto the fathers, even those who are in heaven." (TPJS p337)

The fathers are Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. You could also include Shem, Noah, and Noah's line back to Adam in that group. These are they who were promised eternal life from the Lord during their lives here on earth. They are the prototypes of saved beings. They are those who received promises (covenants) from God, including promises about their posterity.

Most of what we know about the fathers was restored through Joseph Smith. Through him, God gave us knowledge of the covenants made to the fathers, and the knowledge of how to obtain that covenant for ourselves. We were told about the covenant God made to Adam (D&C 107: 53-57). We were told about the covenant God made to Enoch (Moses 7:60->). We were told about the covenant God made to Abraham (Abraham 1,2) and so on. So Elijah can't restore a knowledge of the covenants God made to the fathers, because we already have that. He is going to restore the covenants themselves. Better said, he will be the administrator who offers those same covenants to us.

Today we are told that we receive these same covenants in the temple. I can't buy that. The covenants made to the fathers were not conditional, as is the sealing covenant in D&C 132. However, everything you receive in the temple is conditional, it's right there in the words. Also, each of the fathers was chosen by God. It was not a general experience available to anyone. [sidenote: For those who will object with "But the temple recommend interview---": Recall that this did not exist for decades after Joseph's death and reacquaint yourself with the lives of the patriarchs. What they went through to qualify to be chosen was much more than paying a little money and not drinking tea. Joseph said that any who want to receive the blessings of Abraham must do the works of Abraham.]

Despite all the attempts to make Malachi's promise seem fulfilled with the attention to family history work, the real meaning is far from that. First, realize that work for the dead today is very different than anything taught or practiced by Joseph or Brigham or John Taylor. Briefly, the doctrine in Joseph's day was to become saved yourself, obtain the sealing power, then seal ancestors you could personally vouch for (having known them in life) to yourself. That changed to up to 4 generations back in Brigham's day. By the time Wilford Woodruff was president, he decided to change the focus, which was you getting sealed to THE fathers (patriarchs---called the law of adoption) to you getting sealed to YOUR fathers (a geneological interpretation). He did not cite revelation in that change. From wikipedia: "In a church general conference address on 8 April 1894, Wilford Woodruff stated that 'I have not felt satisfied, nor has any man since the Prophet Joseph Smith who has attended to the ordinance of adoption in the temples of our God.We have felt there was more to be revealed on this subject than we have received … and the duty that I want every man who presides over a Temple to see performed from this day henceforth, unless the Lord Almighty commands otherwise, is let every man be adopted to his father.' Thus, as of 1894, the practice of the law of adoption ceased in the LDS Church."

Compare this to what Joseph taught:

"When a seal is put upon the father and mother it secures their posterity so that they cannot be lost but will be saved by virtue of the covenant of their father." (Words of Joseph Smith, 13 August  1843) (This is an unconditional situation) 

"if you have power to seal on earth & in heaven then we should be Crafty, the first thing you do go & seal on earth your sons & daughters unto yourself, & yourself unto your fathers in eternal glory, & go ahead and not go back, but use a little Craftiness & seal all you can; & when you get to heaven tell your father that what you seal on earth should be sealed in heaven 31 I will walk through the gate of heaven and Claim what I seal & those that follow me & my Council" (Words of Joseph Smith, 10 March 1844)

I believe that the meaning of Moroni's version of Malachi 4 was exceedingly clear in Joseph's day. However, generations of differing interpretations have led us to interpreting it in a way other than the way it is written. To counter that, I would suggest the following version, which (I think) is as plain as can be:

"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And I will make to the children the promises made to the fathers, because the hearts of the children will be like the hearts of the fathers. For all those whose hearts are not like the hearts of the fathers will be consumed by fire when I return."

I believe that wording is justified by the quotes I've already cited.

Why is this important? If you are not waiting for Elijah because you think he's already come, something tells me you would dismiss an opportunity to receive the covenant he will offer when he does come. That would be at the peril of your salvation, would it not?

2. A TEMPLE WHERE THESE THINGS COULD TAKE PLACE
Did you know that the original floorplan of the Nauvoo temple was quite different than our present temples? Did you know that Joseph Smith oversaw the design? Is it not highly likely that Joseph, knowing what the temple would be used for, knew how it ought to be laid out? Did you know that canvas was used to make room partitions in the attic story of the incomplete Nauvoo temple in order to perform the endowment ceremony after Joseph's death, because the architecture of the framed building did not support it?

"At its base the Nauvoo Temple was 128 feet (39 m) long and 88 feet (27 m) wide with a tower and weather vane reaching to 65 feet (20 m). The second temple of the Latter Day Saint movement was built 60% larger in dimensions than its predecessor, the Kirtland Temple. Like Kirtland, the temple contained two assembly halls, one on the first floor and one on the second, called the lower and upper courts. Both had classrooms and offices in the attic. Unlike Kirtland, it had a full basement which housed a baptismal font." (Wikipedia)

Though the dimensions are nearly the same on the facade (the tower of the new temple is 2 feet lower than the original), "the intererior of the temple, however, is a different story." This article by lds.org tells about the differences.

Here is the original floor plan:





And this image shows how the curtains had to be laid out to accommodate the endowment by Brigham Young:



Of course, the Saints did not finish the Nauvoo temple and thus forfeited the blessings predicated upon obedience to that instruction (see D&C 124).

At the time of Joseph's death no one knew exactly what would happen in the Nauvoo temple once it was done. We know it Elijah would restore "the priesthood." We know that animal sacrifice would be restored. They knew this, but still didn't have enough information to implement the little they knew. "Pres Young said that Joseph taught him [that] under the pulpit on the west end [of the Nauvoo temple] will be the place to offer sacrifices; there will be an altar prepared for that purpose so that when any sacrifices are to be offered they should be offered there." (Journal History, Dec 18, 1857)

CONCLUSION

The lesson we need to learn from this history is that the only way we can overcome the failures of our ancestors is to recognize them as such and not make the same mistakes. By rewriting history to support what we would like to think, we not only blind ourselves to our own sins, but we cut ourselves off from the second restoration which must surely come---refusing to believe it is possible because we cannot first see it as necessary.

Joseph's prime goal, to me, was not the restoration of a church. Abraham didn't have a church. Yet we know he was exalted. Isaac didn't have a church. Jacob didn't have a church. Adam didn't have a church. Shem didn't have a church. Joseph's restoration was not all about "faith repentance baptism Holy Ghost" either. That was already believed by an earlier church, the Campbellites. You could say Joseph restored priesthood (John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John did SOMETHING), but we have shown not the highest priesthood.

The most important thing Joseph restored was a knowledge of the covenant God makes with the redeemed, and a knowledge of how to obtain it. That is the fullness contained in the Book of Mormon. The lesson of the patriarchs is to pay heed and diligence to those who have, through their obedience in seeking and heeding God, obtained fruits of the gospel: powers and promises (see Alma 15). Those patriarchs then condescended to serve all others in helping them to obtain the same. They served with patience, kindness, love unfeigned, gentleness, long suffering, etc (see D&C 121).

UPDATE: Source

Part 3: My Testimony Part 2: A Timeline

First Shall Be Last - Last Shall Be First

An interesting timeline. It follows the Chiamus pattern for the history of the world.

(click to enlarge) 

I would like to relate a possible timeline of LDS History. Others may disagree but this is what the Lord has revealed to me to be true.

Parable of the watchtower (D&C 101:43-62)
The Lord foretold the failure of the Saints to acquire the fullness of the priesthood as early as December 1833. He explained that the Saints would plant “the twelve olive trees” (or restore the covenant) and would build a wall and place watchmen (or restore the church), but would unwisely fail to build the required watchtower (Nauvoo Temple) to protect the restoration. Therefore, they would be overthrown. (D&C 101: 43-51.) This was eight years before the Lord warned them they were on the cusp of failing and being rejected as a church. (D&C 124: 31-32.) But the Saints ignored the warning where they were told they would become “very slothful, and [hearken] not unto the commandments of their lord” (D&C 101: 50) given to them eight years earlier. They failed to complete the Nauvoo Temple before Joseph and Hyrum were slain. The brothers' deaths were plainly avoidable by paying attention to the warning given eleven years beforehand in the parable. 

Future Restoration
I support this idea in part 4 using the words of Joseph Smith. But the parable of the watchtower along with Jacob 5 and Isaiah talks about a servant who will finish the Lords work after the vineyard was destroyed (D&C 105:54-62) Also I have touched on it here: A Future Seer Unfulfilled Prophecy

Mighty and Strong

And it shall come to pass that I, the Lord God, will send one mighty and strong, holding the scepter of power in his hand, clothed with light for a covering, whose mouth shall utter words, eternal words; while his bowels shall be a fountain of truth, to set in order the house of God,...
(D&C 85:7)

You cannot set in order something that has not fallen out of order.

A Brief timeline
 In a section on Zion and priesthood the lord digresses to talk about Moses and Israel. I have brought this verse up but I want to expound on it in this post.

"Now this Moses plainly taught to the children of Israel in the wilderness, and sought diligently to sanctify his people that they might behold the face of God; But they hardened their hearts and could not endure his presence; therefore, the Lord in his wrath, for his anger was kindled against them, swore that they should not enter into his rest while in the wilderness, which rest is the fulness of his glory. Therefore, he took Moses out of their midst, and the Holy Priesthood also." (D&C 84:17-26.)  

What a calamity! Because they did not use the priesthood for the purpose for which it was given--and it was given that they might sanctify themselves so as to "behold the face of God"--the Lord withdrew the very priesthood itself. Israel, as a people, was left with the preparatory gospel only, with the law of Moses. Her people were denied what they might have had because they did not magnify their callings in the priesthood. A little thoughtful reflection will cause us to conclude that there are those in latter-day Israel who are not striving to use the Melchizedek Priesthood for the purpose for which it was given any more than did our ancient ancestors. Again -- what a calamity! (Priesthood Prepares Men to See God, Bruce R. McConkie, The Promised Messiah, 578-595)

This is exactly what Joseph wanted, to prepare the saints to build Zion. It is my belief that the Lord was warning the saints that they would fall into this same scenario if they would not or could not "endure his presence". This is a pattern. Re-read it but this time with some changes added by me. 

"Now this [Joseph] plainly taught to the [Latter-day Saints] in the wilderness, and sought diligently to sanctify his people that they might behold the face of God; But they hardened their hearts and could not endure his presence; therefore, the Lord in his wrath, for his anger was kindled against them, swore that they should not enter into his rest while in the wilderness, which rest is the fulness of his glory. Therefore, he took [Joseph] out of their midst, and the Holy Priesthood also." (D&C 84:17-26.)

This is the pattern when the fulness is rejected. Remember one definition for Zion or Adam-Ondi-Ahman (the first Zion on this earth) is Adam in the presence of God. It is the people of God, "No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, 'Know the LORD,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,"(Jeremiah 31:34)

Loss of the Priesthood
The saints lost priesthood sometime after the kirtland temple when they first received it. It would require a new temple to restore the fulness of the priesthood. To be permitted to undertake this, however, there would be a limited time appointed. After that appointment, the church would be rejected. (D&C 124: 31-32.) What that entails is another post. But the outward ordinances continued, ordinations to priesthood, bestow of the HG, endowments, etc... The time is not specified, but the work was to be undertaken by sending "swift messengers," (D&C 124: 26) and gathering all the Saints together with their gold, silver, antiquities, and precious things to construct this Temple. (D&C 124: 26-27.)

The Saints gathered to Nauvoo and by 1844 the population had swollen to 12,000. There were shops, brick homes, stores, and a Masonic Hall constructed in Nauvoo. There was a gunsmith shop, a university, library and wide streets. Unlike other frontier towns with adobe and log homes, Nauvoo boasted brick houses and affluence. This community was superior to anything else along the western boundary of the United States at the time. (See part 4)

When Joseph and Hyrum were killed on June 27, 1844, the Temple walls were not completed and no portion had been dedicated. After Joseph's death, the Saints rededicated themselves to finish the Temple. The exterior walls were completed in December, 1844 and the final sunstone put into place with some considerable difficulty. (See part 4)

28 For there is not a place found on earth that he may come to and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which he hath taken away, even the fulness of the priesthood. (D&C 124:28)

When Joseph had made a sufficient "offering" and "acknowledgments," the Lord gave another opportunity for the Saints to receive again what had been taken from them, that is the "fullness of the priesthood." (D&C 124: 1, 28.)

They could not endure his presence, so they lost the fulness. This was their last opportunity until the Lord extends his hand a second time (Isaiah 11:11, 3 Nephi 16:10) and finishes that which has "already gone forth" among them. (2 Nephi 3:11). Else they would be left with the lesser priesthood (to perform outward ordinances). Or as the LDS church does ordination to the Aaronic and Melchezidek priesthood. Remember there are three degrees of priesthood as taught by Joseph (TPJS, Section Six 1843-44, p.322, See Fulness of the Priesthood). The fulness or patriarchal priesthood or Holy Order, is that which can only be bestowed by "god himself" (TPJS). What was lost was an opportunity for Zion, though individuals could still be Redeemed.

32...if you do not these things at the end of the appointment ye shall be rejected as a church, with your dead, saith the Lord your God. (D&C 124:28)

I will not go into the detail of the Nauvoo timeline here (See Part 4). If you remember Moses (Israelites) were left to wander in the wilderness for 40 years instead of going to the promised land. That was the consequence for the Israelites not being able to "endure his presence". Likewise the saints were left to wander in the wilderness for 3-4 generations being driven to SLC to suffer all manner of afflictions. (Search "third and fourth generation", Exodus 20:4-6, Jackson County Curse D&C 124:50, and other variations of the phrase )

The passing of Church Patriarch Eldred G Smith was a symbol of the end of the 3-4 generational curse. Which priesthood office the church has now abandoned. It marks a new beginning. It means the Lord is now extending his hand again a second time. There is an opportunity now presented to us to build up Zion if we will repent (3 Nephi 16:13). The time is upon us. The heavens are open. YOU have an opportunity to receive of his fulness and if enough of us rise up, we can build Zion. Or we can reject the offer, and God will find another people who will accept it.

When enough are ready to enter into this order, have their hearts turned to the fathers, receive the covenant, then the Lord will bring again Zion.

Corruption from the Beginning

This is plain preaching, and perhaps some of you will not like it. I cannot help it, these are the things that present themselves before my mind. There must be a reformation,there will be a reformation among this people (Orson Pratt, JD 15:361) 

This whole world is full of corruption. Its present in the entire world around us. But we can wake up to it, we don't have to wait for others to show us it. We can overcome it. We can be something altogether different. We can be sons of God, strangers and sojourners here for those who commune with the "general assembly" and come up to an "innumerable company of angels". (D&C 76:67)

Josephs Last Dream
It is my belief that the Lord showed Joseph exactly what would happen in the latter days. I will not summarize it or repost it here. I linked to it here. (Josephs Last Dream)

Our Standing Before God
Remember that you cannot justify your standing before God by a reference to Joseph Smith's own experiences with angels.  Joseph Smith's personal experiences are no more a fair assessment of your own standing before God than Moses' experiences were a reflection of the righteousness of the children of Israel.  Nor are Joseph's personal experiences a good determinant of the Church's present condition.  In fact, Mormon said our churches "have become polluted" because of our pride (Morm. 8:36).  "The holy church of God" has been polluted from the inside out (Morm. 8:38).  Hugh Nibley always said it was an inside job.

Mormon further warned "and your churches, yea, even every one, have become polluted because of the pride of your hearts" (Mormon 8:36) It further warns us that not all is well in Zion,yea, Zion does NOT prosper.

And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnalsecurity, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls...(2 Nephi 28:21)

It warns the saints that "THEY are LED, that in many instances they do err because they are taught by the precepts of men."  (2 Nephi 28:14, emphasis added) Remember, It is by faith that angels come to minister unto man (Moroni 7:37).  If angels have ceased to minister unto men, it is because of unbelief, and their religion is vain (ibid.).  "For no man can be saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name (Moro. 7:38).

A New Leaf Has Turned
I want to make this clear. I believe in the book of mormon. I believe Joseph when he said, "If any man writes to you, or preaches to you, doctrines contrary to the Bible, the Book of Mormon, or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, set him down as an imposter" (Joseph Smith, Times & Seasons, April 1, 1844) Therefore I ask all to compare what I have written to the scriptures. Or else as President George Cannon said "we should discard it". I believe in the Doctrine of Christ.

Any man who had faith believing were bapized, received the holy ghost, and other ordinances, having it sealed by the holy spirit of promise, than they are validated. The blessings given to us as seen in the temple are "conditional upon our faithfulness". It was not that way when in the days of Kirtland.

We may deceive men but we cannot deceive the Holy Ghost, and our blessings will not be eternal unless they are also sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise (Melvin J. Ballard, Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 111.)

I mention this in another post but there are two ordinations, one by man which the church has performed. And one by God. Both are necessary. But a leaf has turned, the times of the gentiles has been fulfilled.

Can't you see the signs of the times? Can't you look about and see the whole world is waxing old like a garment? Can't you see there is now a balance of things kept at bay only to preserve the possibility of a remnant being claimed by God? God promised He would do this. If this can bear fruit, the Lord may give more time and keep the angels from beginning the harvest. That will depend on what we do.

So what?

[W]e cannot claim these promises which were made to the ancients for they are not our property, merely because they were made to the ancient Saints, yet if we are the children of the Most High, and are called with the same calling with which they were called, and embrace the same covenant that they embraced, and are faithful to the testimony of our Lord as they were, we can approach the Father in the name of Christ as they approached Him, and for ourselves obtain the same promises. These promises, when obtained, if ever by us, will not be because Peter, John and the other Apostles, with the churches as Sardis, Pergamos, Philadelphia, and elsewhere walked in the fear of God, and had power and faith to reveal and obtain them; but it will be because we, ourselves, have faith and approach God in the name of His Son Jesus Christ; even as they did; and when these promises are obtained, they will be promises directly to us, or they will do us no good.”  (Joseph Smith, TPJS, p. 66)

This is the religion that Joseph tried to restore. But they would not have it. Instead they wanted something else. So the Lord gave it to them. The Lord answered the saints and continues to do so "according to their idols" (Ezekial 14).

"Could you gaze into heaven five minutes, you would know more than you would by reading all that ever was written on the subject" (TPJS, p. 324; cf. HC 6:50)

Part 2: Jewish Church: Wresting of keys, the kingdom, the power...

Jews:
They had priesthood.
They had the keys of the kingdom.
They had temples.
They rejected John the Baptist "crying from the wilderness"
They rejected Christ when he came as a man. (Mosiah 3:9)

Jews Lost the Kingdom:

"The son of Zacharias wrested the keys, the kingdom, the power, the glory from the Jews, by the holy anointing and decree of heaven, and these three reasons constitute him the greatest prophet born of a woman." (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:260-261)

How did he do it?

"he had his authority from God"...he came forth from the wilderness crying out, "Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is nigh at hand," as much as to say, "Out here I have got the kingdom of God and I am coming after you; I have got the kingdom of God, and you can get it, and I am coming after you; and if you don't receive it, you will be damned;(History of the Church, 5:257-259) 

"was ordained by the angel of God at the time he was eight days old unto this power, to overthrow the kingdom of the Jews, and to make straight the way of the Lord before the face of his people, to prepare them for the coming of the Lord, in whose hand is given all power."(D&C 84:28)

John was sent forth, in part, to be rejected by the Jews so that he could wrest "the keys, the kingdom, and the power and the glory from the Jews, and this by the holy anointing and decree of heaven." Because an angel had established it, and because the Powers of Heaven were behind it, the rejection of John was a necessary step to permit one dispensation to close and another to begin. God follows patterns in every age.

Rejection of John
The Jews no longer had the keys of the kingdom.
The Jews no longer had priesthood.
The Jews ordinances were no longer valid.

Gentiles Get the Gospel

 The Jews, as a nation, having departed from the law of God and the Gospel of the Lord, prepared the way for transferring it to the Gentiles. (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:257-259) 

Gentiles Reject the Gospel
The Gentiles, as a nation, having departed from the law of God and the Gospel of the Lord, prepared the way for transferring it to the Remnant. To permit one dispensation to close and another to begin. This permits Zion to move forward.

10 And thus commandeth the Father that I should say unto you: At that day when the Gentiles shall sin against my gospel, and shall reject the fulness of my gospel, and shall be lifted up in the pride of their hearts above all nations, and above all the people of the whole earth, and shall be filled with all manner of lyings, and of deceits, and of mischiefs, and all manner of hypocrisy, and murders, and priestcrafts, and whoredoms, and of secret abominations; and if they shall do all those things, and shall reject the fulness of my gospel, behold, saith the Father, I will bring the fulness of my gospel from among them. (3 Nephi 16:10)

"At the day when the Gentiles shall sin against the Gospel..."  Not IF.  Not SHOULD THEY HAPPEN TO DO SO. It is in the day WHEN the Gentiles SHALL sin against the Gospel.

The Father has already seen this happen. (D&C 130: 7)  He has told Christ to speak about it. But it is before the Father and therefore He can speak with knowledge of the coming rejection by the Gentiles.

What do the Gentiles do as they reject the Gospel?  They "shall be lifted up in the pride of their hearts above all nations... above all the people of the whole earth." The Gentiles take their inheritance of the promised land as their birthright. They presume God's favor. They mistake their probation and testing as proof of having God's favor. They are on trial, and presume they aren't being tested

To reject the fullness is not to reject the Gospel itself.  As we have seen, some fragment of the Gospel remains even when it has turned into "iniquity" and "abomination." Without some fractured segment of the Gospel to salve the conscious and let the people feel good about their sins, there couldn't be "abominations."

It is not the "Gospel" which is lost. Rather it is the "fullness of my Gospel" which is rejected and then taken away. It is first rejected, then it is forfeited. The Gentiles lose their entitlement to possess what they have rejected.

The Father has decreed it will happen. The Gentiles will change the ordinance and break the everlasting covenant. (Isa. 24: 5.)  What ordinance? What change? Has it happened? If not, what will be required to make a change and lose the "everlasting covenant" by the Gentiles?  I hope to avoid that..

O House of Israel Get the Gospel

11 And then will I remember my covenant which I have made unto my people, O house of Israel, and I will bring my gospel unto them.

The judgements of God will be poured out upon the wicked, to the extent that our elders from far and near will be called home; or in other words, the Gospel will be taken from the gentiles, and later on will be carried to the Jews. (Heber C. Kimball (quoted by J Golden Kimball, son of Heber, Conference Report, Oct. 1930, p. 58-59))  

Gentiles Shall Assist the remnant if they repent. (3 Nephi 21:23) It is the remnant that build the New Jerusalem, not the Gentiles because we will not repent and return unto Him (3 Nephi 16:10, D&C 45:25-30) And only those who repent, come into the Lords presence and receive what is offered (D&C 84:23-25), will ASSIST. For "When God offers a blessing or knowledge to a man, and he refuses to receive it, he will be damned."(WJS, 244). What good does it do to be offered a gift and not receive it?

Gentiles Reject Fulness: Times of The Gentiles Fulfilled

28 And when the times of the Gentiles is come in, a light shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel;
29 But they receive it not; for they perceive not the light, and they turn their hearts from me because of the precepts of men.
30 And in that generation shall the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. (D&C 45:28-30)

The Latter Day Saints Are Identified With The Gentiles.
The kirtland dedicatory prayer the Lord said.

60 Now these words, O Lord, we have spoken before thee, concerning the revelations and commandments which thou hast given unto us, who are identified with the Gentiles (D&C 109:60)

         “We are those Gentiles of whom Nephi speaks.” (McConkie, Millennial Messiah, p 238)

Part 1: Events leading to Zion

In light of the parable of the watchtower in D&C 101:43-62, which has weighed heavily on my mind the last couple years, I share this with you all.

This history is certainly not complete and further not the whole/entire story. But I thought that it would be interesting to put together a short timeline with some basic - but incomplete - answers. I am curious what others would add and what they would remove (or even what they disagree with).

Where did the Book of Mormon take place?

3 Nephi 20: 14-15 (Thursday, September 16, 2010)  Where were they at the moment Christ spoke to them? That affects things, doesn't it? Was it Guatamala? Or the United States?
...
The other way is to take other sources that presumably knew, and accept what they said about the location. I've already quoted from both Moroni and Joseph Smith about the location. Both have placed the events in the area now known as the United States. Moroni's description of the Book of Mormon, and its people, was as follows: "He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang." (JS-H 1: 34.) I presume Moroni knew, and that Joseph had no reason to misstate what he said. It would appear that the continent referred to by Christ using the words, "this land" was North America. And the promise from the Father, made by covenant, was with "the former inhabitants of this continent." 

Why were the Gentiles initially blessed?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)
3 Nephi 20: 27-28  ...unto the pouring out of the Holy Ghost through me upon the Gentiles, which blessing upon the Gentiles shall make them mighty above all, unto the scattering of my people, O house of Israel. And they shall be a scourge unto the people of this land. Nevertheless, when they shall have received the fullness of my gospel, then if they shall harden their hearts against me I will return their iniquities upon their own heads, saith the Father. 

The reason the gentiles received access to the Holy Ghost was to fulfill the purposes of the Father. The remnant would reject the Gospel, and as a result merit judgment. Judgment would come through the gentiles. For that to occur, the Holy Ghost needed to inspire gentile successes. 

The Spirit would be responsible for such great gentile success that they will be made "mighty above all, unto the scattering of my people." That is, no other people will be able to prevail against the gentiles of North America while the Holy Ghost was with the gentiles. They will be a "scourge" upon the remnant as a result of the Father's judgments implemented by Christ, using the Holy Ghost.  

What were the Gentiles eventually offered?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  The Spirit will entitle the gentiles to be offered the fullness. They will qualify by their acts and obedience. When you receive light and stay true to it, you are offered more light. The gentiles will accept and pursue more light, and will merit an opportunity to receive thefullness of the Gospel. 

Gentiles did have the fullness of the Gospel, which requires the fullness of the priesthood that was offered while Joseph Smith was here. It was given sometime between 1829 and 1832, and removed before 1841. (See prior post and D&C 132: 45 and D&C 124: 28.)  

How was the "Fullness" rejected the first time (prior to 1841)? Who rejected the "Fullness"?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  When the gentiles were offered the fullness, they displayed little interest in it. Joseph remarked: "I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints prepared to receive the things of God; but we frequently see some of them, after suffering all they have for the work of God, will fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything comes that is contrary to their traditions: they cannot stand the fire at all. How many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and receive their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called, but few are chosen." (DHC 6: 184-185; see also D&C 121: 40.) 

Why was the Church offered the "Fullness" a second time?

Remnant, part VII (Tuesday, September 14, 2010)  When Joseph had made a sufficient "offering" and "acknowledgments," the Lord gave another opportunity for the Saints to receive again what had been taken from them, that is the "fullness of the priesthood." (D&C 124: 1, 28.)
To be permitted to undertake this, however, there would be a limited time appointed. After that appointment, the church would be rejected. (D&C 124: 31-32.) The time is not specified, but the work was to be undertaken by sending "swift messengers," (D&C 124: 26) and gathering all the Saints together with their gold, silver, antiquities, and precious things to construct this Temple. (D&C 124: 26-27.)

The Saints gathered to Nauvoo and by 1844 the population had swollen to 12,000. There were shops, brick homes, stores, and a Masonic Hall constructed in Nauvoo. There was a gunsmith shop, a university, library and wide streets. Unlike other frontier towns with adobe and log homes, Nauvoo boasted brick houses and affluence. This community was superior to anything else along the western boundary of the United States at the time.

When Joseph and Hyrum were killed on June 27, 1844, the Temple walls were not completed and no portion had been dedicated. After Joseph's death, the Saints rededicated themselves to finish the Temple. The exterior walls were completed in December, 1844 and the final sunstone put into place with some considerable difficulty.

How did the Gentiles reject the "Fullness" this second time?

I site other sources for these events in part 4.

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  When the Saints were given a final opportunity to receive the offered fullness extended to all, they needed to show their willingness to accept it by completing the Nauvoo Temple within a short time. They were given long enough to complete it, and if it was not completed in that appointed time, they would be rejected. (D&C 124: 32.) We have seen how the Saints proceeded to build Nauvoo and their own homes rather than the Nauvoo Temple from 1841 to June, 1844 when Joseph and Hyrum were killed. (See The Remnant Part VII.) 

When Joseph was taken, the Temple walls had not yet been completed to the second floor. 

When the Twelve prayed in the Temple on February 8, 1846 that the Lord would bless the Saints to be able to complete the Temple, the Temple caught fire the next day.
Repairs and further work allowed a dedication to finally take place at the end of April, 1846, nearly two years after Joseph's death.The dedicatory prayer petitioned the Lord to "take guardianship into Thy hands," but by September the keys to the Temple doors were handed to a mob which had overrun Nauvoo. It was the position of Elder Hyde that the Saints performed as they were required "by the skin of our teeth," thereby escaping rejection by the Lord. (This was discussed in The Remnant Part VII.)

What is the official view on Nauvoo and its temple?

Remnant, part VII (Tuesday, September 14, 2010)  From the time of Nauvoo until the present day, every President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints either lived in Nauvoo between January 1841 and June 1844, or descended from those who lived there during the time. (Although some were called on missions and abandoned families who resided there for some of that time.)

Church history takes the view that Nauvoo was a triumph, and the Saints succeeded in accomplishing all that was required of them, and more. The stories of heroism, sacrifice and devotion that focus on the Nauvoo era are endless.  

Those families who trace their geneology to ancestors in Nauvoo at that time defend the notion that the they are specially favored as families, and are among the noble and great chosen to lead others in mortality because of their great devotion and sacrifice.

What else must the Gentile Church reject to finally merit the coming judgments?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  The prophecy of Christ, as commanded by the Father, foretells that if the gentiles do reject the fullness, then the Father will "return their iniquities upon their own heads." Meaning that the gentiles will, by reason of their rejection of what was offered them, merit condemnation for ingratitude. (D&C 88: 33-35.) They remain "filthy still" because that which would have cleansed them was not received in gratitude. It was rejected. When a people reject the Lord, the Lord, being governed by law, must reject them. 

This is the reason the coming judgments are necessary. Where much is given (and we were offered everything) then much is expected.(Luke 12: 47-48.) When everything is rejected, then the punishment merited reflects complete rejection of the Lord. You must keep this in mind as you read the judgments Christ prophesies upon the gentiles.

What event is likely to precede many of the afflictions? What other signs will parallel those events?

Zion (Thursday, February 23, 2012)  When there is an abomination that renders desolate in the Temple, you will also see afflictions. You will see those who claim they are Christ, or they are Christ's true living prophet-- though they are not. You will see signs and wonders, including great building projects and the astonishing ability to speak in every language across the world in a single time, but that will not deceive those who take the Holy Spirit for their guide. They will be able to distinguish between the truth and error. Heaven will be shaken. Angels will gather those who follow Christ rather than trust the arm of flesh, and ultimately Christ will return and the world will be wasted at His coming. Though there will be some fragment, like the days of Noah, there will be those who have been gathered by the angels. Those few will be preserved.

Who will eventually play the primary role in the coming dispensation and the building of the New Jerusalem?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  The promise of a remnant holding authority and performing a central work in the establishment of Zion, as prophesied by the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, would be a dramatic change in course for the church. This is something that will occur in any event. Indeed, coalitions, conspiracies and man's arm will be powerless to prevent it. Unlikely history is the stuff of scripture.

As Elder Orson Pratt said almost since the beginning.

There must be a reformation. There will be a reformation among this people, but He will plead with the stronger ones of Zion, He will plead with this people, He will plead with those in high places, He will plead with the priesthood of this church, until Zion shall become clean before him. I do not know but what it would be an utter impossibility to commence and carry out some principles pertaining to Zion right in the midst of this people. They have strayed so far that to get a people who would conform to heavenly laws it may be needful to lead some from the midst of this people and commence anew in the regions round about in these mountains. (JD 15:355-360) 

This is plain preaching, and perhaps some of you will not like it. I cannot help it, these are the things that present themselves before my mind. There must be a reformation,there will be a reformation among this people (JD 15:361) 

Prophecies will be fulfilled. Despite vanity and foolishness, error and unbelief, prophecies will be fulfilled

How can we individually overcome our generation's sins and iniquity and truly receive to the LORD in the flesh?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010)  And remember also that no matter what the collective gentile conduct may be (or fail to be), the Lord approaches each of us individually.The Book of Mormon is intended as the final opportunity for gentile salvation. The church is under condemnation for failing to remember its contents and take them seriously. (D&C 84: 54-58.) That scourge needn't be applied to you, if you will "repent and remember the new covenant" offered to you. There is, for any gentile who will repent and take the covenants offered in the Book of Mormon, an opportunity to yet become associated with the remnant and an heir of the preservation and salvation offered to them. 

As we survey the condition of the gentile church today, there seems to be less and less made of the Book of Mormon's contents. The Correlation Department's teachings are insubstantial and becoming even less so. However, you have the Book of Mormon in front of you. You don't need anyone to prepare a manual for you. You have the text itself.

Has the LORD provided any help in navigating and understanding the Book of Mormon?

3 Nephi 20: 27-28 (Tuesday, September 21, 2010) Prayerfully study the most correct volume of scripture we possess. It is a lifeline extended by the Lord to us. However, it cannot do you any good if you fail to act on its contents. Do the works, and you will know the doctrine. I suspect our universal failure to know doctrine today is because we do not live as we should. Understanding doctrine is tied to living it. The more you live it, the more you will comprehend it. (John 7: 16-17.) The less you live it, the more elusive it becomes to you. 

What must be restored prior prior to the Second Coming of the LORD?

3 Nephi 20: 25-27 (Monday, September 20, 2010)  The phrase "turning the hearts of the children to the fathers" is a reference to the restoration of sealing authority, allowing a connection between man living on the earth, and the fathers (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob). In this dispensation, that restoration occurred when Joseph Smith was given the sealing authority and priesthood whereby he could ask and receive answers. (D&C 132: 45-47.) As discussed earlier, this was sometime between 1829 and 1833, though I think it was more likely the earlier date as I have explained. Coincident with receiving this authority, Joseph's calling and election was made sure. (D&C 132: 49.) ... This priesthood, having the hearts of the recipients turned to the fathers, and the promise of exaltation, are interconnected. 

Abraham not only held this authority, but received the promise that all who received the Gospel after him would become his descendants.From the time of Abraham to the present, every saved soul has had their heart turned to him, become his son or daughter, and receive that same priesthood. (Abraham 2: 10-11.) When Joseph received this, he was not merely sealed up to eternal life, but he became part of the family of Abraham. 

How did the Prophet Joseph Smith use the "Sealing Power"?

3 Nephi 20: 25-27 (Monday, September 20, 2010)  The sealing authority used by Joseph in December, 1832, was to seal others up to eternal life. (See D&C 88: 2-4.) This promise had been previously conferred upon Joseph in that portion of Section 132... In fact, Joseph's use of that authority in December, 1832 on behalf of others is evidence that the promise to him recorded in Section 132 was necessarily received earlier than December, 1832. If it had not been received earlier, there would have been no need to make the statement in D&C 132: 49 to Joseph, because of what is in Section 88. Why tell Joseph his calling and election was sure in 1843 if it had happened already in 1832? This is another reason you can know Section 132, although recorded in 1843, was in fact a revelation received by Joseph much earlier. It was reduced to writing in 1843 at Hyrum's request. 

The reference to "turning the hearts of the fathers to the children" made by Elijah was not because Elijah conferred those keys upon Joseph in the Kirtland Temple (D&C 110: 16), for they arrived years earlier than 1836. Elijah was confirming that the keys were now all returned so the hearts of the children could turn to the fathers, and in turn the father's hearts to the children. (D&C 110: 15.) And, so as to signify he was a true messenger, Elijah also showed a sign by his hand to Joseph whereby Joseph could recognize a true messenger.(D&C 2: 1.)

What if the LORD has again bestowed the keys and the Sealing Power on a new dispensation head?

Parable (Monday, October 29, 2012)"  I saw a great mountain, and upon the top thereof was the glory of the fathers. To reach the top, all were required to enter through a narrow pass. In the pass was a great beast, cruel and pitiless.

The Lord brought people whom he had chosen to the mouth of the pass, and there He told them to wait for him, and He went away. The people did not wait for Him, but began to move forward into the narrow pass. The beast killed some and injured others, and none were able to pass through.

After great losses, many deaths and terrible suffering, the people chosen by the Lord withdrew and departed from the mountain. After four and five generations, the Lord again brought some few back to the pass and again told them to stay at the mouth of the pass and wait on Him. But again there were those who tired of waiting, for they could see in the distance the glory of the fathers, and they desired to be there. These, being overtaken by their zeal, did not wait, but moved into the pass where again the beast killed or hurt them.

Among those who waited, however, was a man who knelt and prayed, and waited patiently for his Lord. After a great time, the Lord came to this man and took him by the hand, and led him into the pass where the great beast guarded the way. As the Lord led, however, the beast was ever occupied with attacking others, and therefore its back was turned to the Lord and the man. And so they passed by unnoticed, safely to the top. 
The Lord brought people whom he had chosen to the mouth of the pass, and there He told them to wait for him, and He went away. The people did not wait for Him, but began to move forward into the narrow pass. The beast killed some and injured others, and none were able to pass through. 

After great losses, many deaths and terrible suffering, the people chosen by the Lord withdrew and departed from the mountain. After four and five generations, the Lord again brought some few back to the pass and again told them to stay at the mouth of the pass and wait on Him. But again there were those who tired of waiting, for they could see in the distance the glory of the fathers, and they desired to be there. These, being overtaken by their zeal, did not wait, but moved into the pass where again the beast killed or hurt them. 

Among those who waited, however, was a man who knelt and prayed, and waited patiently for his Lord. After a great time, the Lord came to this man and took him by the hand, and led him into the pass where the great beast guarded the way. As the Lord led, however, the beast was ever occupied with attacking others, and therefore its back was turned to the Lord and the man. And so they passed by unnoticed, safely to the top. The Lord sent the man to the fathers, who when they saw the man inquired of him, "How came you to be here and yet mortal; the last who came here were brothers who had been slain, and you are yet alive?" And the man answered: "I waited on the Lord and He brought me here safely."

What must be gathered in the next dispensation?

Twelve Oxen (Wednesday, March 17, 2010)  The Temple of Solomon had a "sea" for washings of the priests. The description of that "sea" is found in 1 Kings 7: 23-26. Significantly the "sea" sat upon the backs of twelve oxen. (verse 25.) Three were facing north, three facing west, three facing south, and three facing east. 

In the time of the First Temple, these twelve oxen foreshadowed the scattering of Israel to the four corners of the earth. The destruction of the First Temple completed the scattering, which began at the death of Solomon, who was responsible the construction of the First Temple. When he died, the kingdom was divided north and south. The northern kingdom contained ten tribes, which would be taken into Assyrian captivity at about 725 b.c., and then be lost to history as they scattered northward. The remaining two tribes of the south were taken captive by Babylon at 600 b.c., and then a "remnant" returned. They were finally dispossessed of their land at 70 a.d. by the Roman destruction of Jerusalem, and scattered throughout the Roman Empire.

We also build fonts in Temples with twelve oxen bearing the font of water used for baptisms for the dead. These twelve oxen are also divided into groups of three facing north, west, south and east. Now, however, the oxen signify the gathering of scattered Israel. They also signify by their number, three, the concept of presidency or organization under restored priestly authority. The circle of twelve also are a symbol of restored, reorganized Israel in the latter-days to once again exist as a united people upon the earth.

As a recap, where and when has the LORD already labored in the vineyard?

Themes from Jacob 5 (Friday, April 20, 2012)  3. The Lord has occasionally come to the vineyard. On one occasion He labored directly within the vineyard, choosing to mingle with the scattered branches and to personally minister among them. This produced a period of production throughout the vineyard. However, it was short-lived. The vineyard lapsed into bitter fruit everywhere. There came a point where the entire vineyard produced nothing but bitter fruit, in every part of the Lord's possession. 

When that time came, the Lord determined to labor a "last time" in the vineyard, and to bring a "few servants" to assist. Again this return would involve His personal appearance, but it took the form of periodic appearances with His servants, as in the First Vision and Section 76. When He appears He confers authority. Joseph and Sidney both "received of His fullness" when He ministered to them. (D&C 76: 20.) Indeed, no one can behold His glory and not receive of His fullness. (D&C 84: 22.) To receive His priesthood, He must redeem from the fall (Ether 3: 13) and thereby receive Him. (D&C 84: 35.) This is not an apperance in the heart, but is rather a personal appearance. The idea it is something merely in the heart is an old sectarian notion and is false. (D&C 130: 3.)

What must happen next in our history (as defined in Jacob 5)?

Themes from Jacob 5 (Friday, April 20, 2012)  4. In the Lord's last labor in the vineyard, the commencement of the work does not signal the end of His involvement. Once begun, He will continue to labor with the tree to encourage it to produce fruit. He will send servants who will labor with all their might to bring the fruit about. However, it will be the tree's response and not the Lord's nor His servants' work that will bring again the natural fruit. This will take a long time before the roots are able to take hold again. The grafted branches will require pruning and additional work before they respond and return to respect and take nourishment from the natural roots. What was shocking and hard to bear with will need to be accepted in humility and gratitude before the natural fruit can appear once more. 

5. When the natural fruit begins to appear, the Lord will begin to trim away the bad to make way for the good to prevail. Therefore, those who fight against the natural fruit will be cut down. Even those who entertain high positions will be struck down if they oppose the return of the Lord's natural fruit. (See, e.g., D&C 85: 7.) The Lord of the vineyard controls which branches are allowed to survive with His tree, and not the tree itself. The inclination to produce the lofty and high minded remains the tendency of the tree. But those unwanted and unproductive branches will be cut away, burned, and not allowed to interfere with the natural fruit.

What must some personally receive before the LORD HIMSELF chooses once again to bring Zion to this very fallen world?

3 Nephi 20: 25-27 (Monday, September 20, 2010)  In Christ's statement to the Nephite audience, He confirmed that they were "the children of the prophets" because they followed the prophets' teachings. Therefore, because of their obedience they were "of the house of Israel" and had realized that status because "of the covenant which the Father made with your fathers." That covenant was given "unto Abraham" promising to Abraham: "And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed." All those after the day of Abraham who received this priesthood and sealing would become the seed of Abraham. They become heirs of the promise, and children of Abraham. They are sealed up to eternal life and therefore their hearts have turned to the fathers. 

Christ was sent to these Nephites because, "The Father having raised me up unto you first, and sent me to bless you in turning away every one of you from his iniquities; and this because ye are the children of the covenant." Realizing the promises, and being visited by the Lord are also connected. When enough are ready to enter into this order, have their hearts turned to the fathers, receive the covenant, then the Lord will bring again Zion.

Who will gather Zion when the time comes?

Zion (Thursday, February 23, 2012)
The angels will be the ones responsible for that gathering. (See D&C 77: 11, Mark 13: 27.) This presents an apparent impediment to those who either don't believe angels minister to mankind, or who believe they only minister to church leaders, or who think them possible, but have never been administered personally by them.

3 Nephi 21: 27-28 (Thursday, July 22, 2010)  There will be gatherings, and a great gathering, and at last a distribution of the survivors into their respective promised lands. Between the time of the great upheavals, and the time of the final distribution, there will be a season in which there will a great gathering in the "Mountains" (2 Ne. 12: 2) where it will be a fearsome, even terrible thing for the wicked to contemplate. (D&C 45: 68-70.) This will be in "the tops of the mountains." (Micah 4: 1; 2 Ne. 12: 2; Isa. 2: 2.) This will be where the New Jerusalem will exist. This will be before the final distribution into the various places of inheritance of the Lord's people.

Before the return to the lands of inheritance, however, there will be terrible days, the likes of which have only been seen in the final pages of the Nephite record.(Mormon 6: 6-22.)

Who will constitute the main body of Zion?

3 Neph 16: 11 (Thursday, June 24, 2010)  What an interesting picture begins to emerge. Gentile rejection, but a tiny group of Ephriamite servants whose lives are lived so as to bestow blessings upon others. 

The main body in the New Jerusalem coming from the remnant, who are to build the City of the New Jerusalem, yet within that City a functioning group of Ephraimites who will crown others with glory. All this preparatory to the Lord's return to a City set upon a hill which cannot be hid. To a location in the tops of the everlasting mountains, where all will gather from every nation.

How many members does it take to have a functioning group of "Ephraimites" in the midst of a city composed of the "Remnants"?

What will be required of those that the Angels invite to join Zion?

Zion (Thursday, February 23, 2012)  This gathering will require a kind of social order we are unprepared to live. We cannot be "one" in the sense required for Zion in our present social, political, economic and educational systems. It requires a kind of inter-dependence and cooperation we find repulsive. Even those in the commune on Isaac Morely's farm, after converting to Mormonism, couldn't live the united order and have all things in common. It was this experience, prior to conversion, that led to the revelations about the united order. It fell apart. We've never had a successful long-term experience trying to live within that kind of system.

Who will be involved in the final gathering in the next dispensation?

3 Nephi 21: 27-28 (Thursday, July 22, 2010)  When it begins in earnest and for the last time, it will be universal. There won't be an effort among one part of the vineyard which isn't mirrored by similar efforts in other parts of the vineyard. All the natural branches will be returned and reunited with the natural roots, as all are gathered again into one. 

The Father will determine the timing. The Son will implement the plan. The process will require everyone, in every scattered part of the vineyard, to "come unto Christ." Unless they "come unto Christ," they will not be gathered and cannot be saved. 

When they are brought again into their original state and begin to bear fruit, "they may call on the Father in [Christ's] name" with His approval and blessing. Without that, the "gathering home" cannot become a reality. 

The Father's work will be "among all nations" because it will involve the judgment and destruction of all nations. (D&C 87: 6.)

What else must happen before the LORD's people will return to the lands of their inheritance?

3 Nephi 21: 27-28 (Thursday, July 22, 2010)  Before the return to the lands of inheritance, however, there will be terrible days, the likes of which have only been seen in the final pages of the Nephite record. (Mormon 6: 6-22.)

To recap, what is the choice before us?

3 Nephi 21: 27-28 (Thursday, July 22, 2010)  The choice is between the Lord, His offered redemption and protection, and destruction. The gentiles are now offered a choice while reenacting the same poor judgment that led to their own loss of opportunity. That needn't be true of individuals. It seems apparent that the prophetic message of the Book of Mormon foretells gentile arrogance and pride, collectively claiming they are on the road to Zion,while they are instead doomed to repeating the errors of prior civilizations of this continent. 

And also ...

A parting thought (Saturday, November 17, 2012)  In the Book of Mormon a people were "destroyed" when they lost control over their government. Their ability to preserve their own values, and choose the way they were governed was taken over by others. Most often it was from a different ethnic group, though not always. In the case of Amalackiah he was ethnically Nephite, but his values were Lamanite.

Once people were "destroyed" they were oppressed and suffered. Often they were oppressed with grievous taxes, and had religious liberties removed. Then they faced a choice: Either repent, in which case they came through the period of oppression with another chance. Or, if they were angry and rebellious, they would then be "swept away." 

Being "destroyed" is not at all the same as being "swept away." It is possible for people to have been destroyed and not even realize it.But when swept away they face extinction, and cannot help but notice it.