The Kingdom of God - Jay Mackley LDS Zion blog

In Scripture, “The Kingdom of God” is a different entity from “The Kingdom of Heaven”. This is clear¹ and Jesus was explicit² in noting the difference.

The Kingdom of God is His Gospel³ — the spiritual⁴ kingdom comprised of his followers who believe and act⁵ on his teachings, repent⁶ of sins, and make sacred covenant⁷ to live His law⁸.

The Kingdom of Heaven is His physical⁹ kingdom, something to “inherit¹⁰” in the future¹¹, and to be established as ZION¹² when He comes to rule on the earth after His second coming¹³. It includes both the spiritual and the physical aspects of administration. Jesus himself establishes¹⁴ the Kingdom of Heaven because He is the King¹⁵.

Some critics actually believe the Latter-day Saints are plotting to take over the world for Jesus and are therefore dangerous. Well, there will never be enough Latter-day Saints for that and we are not trained for it. We have enough to worry about in doing our part to establish the spiritually based Kingdom of God and it’s all we can handle, if that. No, Jesus Himself and His celestial legions¹⁶ of angels¹⁷ are going to establish His Kingdom¹⁸ of Heaven when He comes. After all, Jesus created¹⁹ this earth and God, the Father, has given²⁰ it to Him. Meanwhile, we are just temporary visitors, unless He says otherwise²¹. Jesus says he’ll “bare His arm²²” in the eyes of all the nations. Watch out²³.

The core leadership of the Kingdom of Heaven is to be comprised of those His valiant spiritual leaders²⁴, both present and past²⁵ — for they’ll all have perfect²⁶ and amazing immortal bodies²⁷ and minds that never age, never forget, never fail. Each of these leaders are of tested and proven character, warriors against evil that have conquered by faith²⁸ in mortality despite intense opposition²⁹ and in the Kingdom of Heaven they’ll have all power over the enemy — and they can no longer be tempted or deceived. Each of these were pre-anointed and prepared for their leadership role in a Holy Temple³⁰ of God and later personally approved of³¹ by their Lord to be crowned as Kings and Queens³² in Zion.

In preparation for Zion, the Lord introduced His Church³³ as the most perfect organization on the earth. The Church is the Kingdom of God, and though the Church is not yet perfect– the earthly organization itself has been improving as it’s people improve³⁴, ever since 1830³⁵ when it was established.

Consider below the comparison between the Kingdom of God and other governing organizations. All worldly secular governments share features from the right column. Some more, some less. However, none of the features on the right column below are a part of the Kingdom of God in the left column.

The Kingdom of God	Organizations of Men
Leadership based on merit and potential The best person for a job is discussed and a final decision is made by the “presiding” leader who has specific authority originating from Jesus. Qualifications, availability, potential, interest, experience, etc are all reviewed by at least three leaders who all concur. The final decision for multiple candidates rests with the Presiding leader. The candidate is not considered because they “applied” for the position. In most cases, the person has no knowledge³⁶ if/when they are even being considered. Leaders are chosen³⁷, not elected. There is never any “electioneering” or popular vote among multiple candidates. There is no “loyal opposition”³⁸. Everyone is on the same team and no conflicting forces are built into the system. This does not mean there are no safe-guards.	. Power is obtained via lies, cronyism, bribes, conspiracy, violence, threats and intimidation³⁹. It is obviously worse under dictatorships with zero elected representatives. Those who wield power put their “friends” in position to maintain power, and not those who would actually do the best job. They are, in other words, at best, “political appointees” receiving “payback”. There is no political system in the world where this doesn’t occur on a frequent basis. It is endemic and has led to many wars and bloodshed, suffering, oppression, and inequality.
Part time workers volunteer unselfish service The same selection process used for leaders (see above) is also used for all workers (teachers, administrators, etc) is the same as is followed as for leaders. When an assignment is made the acceptance rate in the Church is somewhere north of 90%. I have served as a counselor to two Bishops and tasked with making the official “call” to individual leaders and workers. I had only one person ever say “no”. That is my experience. Under this system, one can only give, not take. One works at making an independent living for their own physical maintenance⁴⁰ and then volunteers part time service to the community.	. Paid, full time, permanent, salaried workers invested in the status quo of the leader that employs them. Unfortunately this class of workers, especially if “unionized” will try to insure that that things remain the same. They have every incentive to support their own recompense or “entitlements” as a primary goal rather than to place the good of the people they serve as first.
Stable laws, rules, and expectations Christ’s Church does not change direction on a whim. It does adapt and respond to changes in society but the core principles remain consistent, with just shifts in emphasis from time to time as needs and challenges arise. Stability is inherent because everything is focused on divine principles which do not change. Critics will disagree and cite various changes in Church policy and procedure, but they are wrong – the principles do not change. People do change however and God asks more of those who are ready to receive and less of those who are not yet ready. He mercifully gives us time to adapt, improve, and sometimes repent. Latter-day Saints expect and hope for more change⁴¹ in the future as we, as a people, become more worthy and capable — until finally we can be worthy of Jesus’ presence in every day life. Under this kind of environment, everyone has incentive to excel and are free to do great things because they know what is of value and receive respect and recognition from those they serve.	. Laws changed frequently and are enforced selectively based on favoritism and cronyism and payoffs. Under this system, one hesitates to invest personal time, resources, and money because it could be taken away arbitrarily. No one has incentive to work extra or aspire to greatness. Everyone knows when the “fix” is in and when taking an honest initiative is a waste of time at best and dangerous at worst. When this type of environment becomes extreme, all transactions must be paid for immediately, “cash on the barrel” because there is no trust in the individual or the laws or the future.
Consent of the governed True transparency in public affairs. It is God’s Church and Christ’s Kingdom. However, the divine principle that applies is “common consent⁴²“. The leaders of the Church are “sustained” in their responsibilities. By the raise of the right hand (the traditional Old Testament “covenant hand”) members agree to follow their leaders, agree to accept scripture, agree to new leadership, agree to major changes in policy. Or not. It is rare but I have seen people raise their hand in opposition to a proposal. In fact, I did it once myself. A man was presented for sustaining vote as a teacher of a youth class and I knew, and knew the Bishop knew, that he had been in some trouble or suspicion for child molestation. So I raised my hand as being “not in favor”. This means I would be asked to explain my concern after the meeting, which I did when I spoke to one the the Bishops councilors. He told me the Bishopric was aware of the reasons for my concern but said they “knew what they were doing” and asked me to support the action. I didn’t agree that it was a good idea but did agree to accept and support the Bishopric’s decision. However, about two weeks later the man was released, so my concerns were probably well founded. It’s a great system. Everybody is kept informed of what is going on, and so there’s a little more pressure on the leaders to make sure their decisions are wise ones that can be well justified. However there is very rarely a need to oppose a proposal in public meeting as ideas and people get vetted in the Ward Council meeting and Bishopric meetings and by their own conduct. A faithful Latter-day Saint would never oppose an action for anything but a significant reason. We covenant to support our leaders and each other and, in return, we get that support back. Really, we become true and faithful friends united in the great cause of helping one another.	. Force and/or deception must be used to govern and stay in power. Spend more money to get more influence. Under this system, everything and everybody is for sale. Principle matters not nearly as much as personal loyalty to the one in power whether it is actually deserved or not. Rather than do the right thing or seek honest feedback the pressure is to “get it done” in whatever way is necessary. Under this system, the ends always justify the means.
Material and financial support I have seen many Church leaders put in 20+ hours a week in volunteer time in pursuit of their duty in fulfilling Church responsibilities. All local volunteers are part time and work in non-paid positions – and many of the full time leaders serve without pay also. The requirement is to work for the sole purpose of serving God⁴³ and with no other agenda. It is a scriptural principle⁴⁴. One simply can’t be effectively independant when doing it for the money⁴⁵. On the other hand, there are paid staff positions and (CES, Church Education System) instructors within the Church as well as a “modest stipend”⁴⁶ granted to full-time Church leaders (general authorities) from non-tithing funds (that is, income from Church properties and businesses and not from donations) – those who are full time in their efforts and who need it in order to serve. Many full time leaders are able to serve without the assistance if they have retirement or other income. Ordinary members of Church may receive welfare assistance⁴⁷ in the form of training, commodities from the Bishops storehouse, and direct funds according to special needs, which help people become self sufficient. In return, those being helped labor and accept any special work assignments that may be given them. Those in need do not receive assistance for the purpose of “maintaining their lifestyle” but rather are taught and helped to reach a condition in which they are 100% self-sufficient in their needs.	. Lavish pay for leaders with as many perks as possible, at the expense of ordinary citizens. This happens today in the US where public employees, Senators, Congressmen, and Presidents live in high style on the public dime and make sure their power and influence translate into personal gain. They rationalize that it’s not that much money and that they deserve it. In some countries this attitude devolves into outright robbery where the leadership class lives in luxury at the permanent expense of the rest.
Every citizen has a say and a vote Everyone having a say is much more than simply giving a sustaining vote. LDS Church members have a lot of opportunity for input. Often they have a church responsibility (calling) that allows for plenty of feedback in meetings both public and private, plus frequent personal interviews with leaders. One LDS joke is that we have a fourteenth article of faith that begins with “We believe in meetings…”. There is also one Sunday a month where anyone, including children, can walk to the podium and say anything on the spur of the moment. Typically, this is to express thanks to God or friends for assistance received, growth experiences, good-byes, sharing of personal testimony and experience, and/or all of the above. We are all connected. No one need stand alone. Everyone is heard.	. To have a say, costs money or requires a power base of followers. Votes can be bought or forged if necessary. Under this environment, “having a say” is usually construed as being in opposition and that means you are the enemy and need to be put down or at least watched carefully. Who cares about your opinion anyway? The leader will make all the decisions and provide you with the incentives (or threats) and your job is to simply follow and get along. You are told that it’s “for your own good”.
Simple flat tax with a single rate It’s calling tithing⁴⁸. 10% of gross personal income. Just move the decimal one place to the left. No complications. No 75,000 page library of IRS regulations. No tax accountants. Each person makes their own ethical decision if his/her tithing is “full” and declares it to the Bishop at year-end and receives a final official financial statement. Those who fail to pay are not physically cast out or shunned or imprisoned, but they do not have all the same privileges as a member in good standing. There is no disincentive for the wealthy. There is no dividing people into classes based on how much they pay. The wealthy and poor pay exactly the same: 10%. They are equal. If the poor cannot meet their basic needs, they are still expected to pay tithing on what they have. Assistance, education, training, and help are given so they can become independent.	. Complex and extravagant tax system to control the populace and reward the rulers and their supporters. The money and property is taken forcibly, not given voluntarily, and the reason given is “it is for your own good”. Failure to pay brings penalties and maybe severe punishment. Most government assistance to the populate is distributed with great inefficiencies in the form of a “dole” in a way that promotes dependency rather than independence.
Final decisions made locally Policy decisions are made by the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve, Presiding Bishopric, and Presidents of Seventy. There is uniformity throughout the Church as regards policy, rules, curriculum in classes, etc. Each leader has a “handbook” (usually about 30 pages) that explains all Church policies relating to their leadership responsibility. How these policies are implemented is up to the local leaders who have authority to make exceptions to meet the specific needs of individuals or unusual circumstances. Local leaders also have authority to make decisions when counseling with local members. When Latter-day Saints write to church headquarters for advice and guidance they are directed back to their local leaders. There is in the the Latter-day Church a near perfect balance between centralized leadership and local control. The goal and the trend is for more and more local control, and the policy handbooks are getting thinner and thinner. The Prophet Joseph Smith once said⁴⁹, “I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves”. This same principle remains actively in effect in todays Church.	. Centralized leadership and decision making with limited or no input at the local level. This ensures that power remains in the hands of a few. Sharing power is done very reluctantly and with jealousy as it may threaten the central leaders authority.
Leadership rotation While it is often considered an honor to serve, there is no dishonor in being “released” from a responsibility. It is expected anyway. Rotation is the norm and it keeps things healthy. New perspectives are regularly introduced and people don’t get “burned out”. Those released often immediately receive a new assignment that is different. Long time service in the Church provides many perspectives and a lot of practical experience. It is a healthy approach. Most Church assignments last 1-3 years. Some leadership assignments last longer. Bishops usually serve around five years. Ward and Stake clerks often last 5+ years. Stake Presidents around 10 years. Average length of service for all Church positions at the Ward and Stake level is about 3 years. Even if a person is released (never “let go”) for incompetence, they are honorably released. The only dishonor directed is that which they might bring on themselves through public action (or inaction). It is, after all, a volunteer system, and every effort is appreciated. Praise and honor is often lavished where deserved and any negative perspective is downplayed, even if deserved. The strength of this system is the broad experience it provides and the ease in which effective leaders can be trained/developed and poor leaders re-assigned.	. Leaders use their position to keep and hold onto power for as long a possible and by any means necessary so that can keep power and continue to insure personal benefits while growing their power base.

The Kingdom of God

Organizations of Men

Leadership based on merit and potential

The best person for a job is discussed and a final decision is made by the “presiding” leader who has specific authority originating from Jesus. Qualifications, availability, potential, interest, experience, etc are all reviewed by at least three leaders who all concur. The final decision for multiple candidates rests with the Presiding leader. The candidate is not considered because they “applied” for the position. In most cases, the person has no knowledge³⁶ if/when they are even being considered. Leaders are chosen³⁷, not elected. There is never any “electioneering” or popular vote among multiple candidates. There is no “loyal opposition”³⁸. Everyone is on the same team and no conflicting forces are built into the system. This does not mean there are no safe-guards.

.

Power is obtained via lies, cronyism, bribes, conspiracy, violence, threats and intimidation³⁹. It is obviously worse under dictatorships with zero elected representatives. Those who wield power put their “friends” in position to maintain power, and not those who would actually do the best job. They are, in other words, at best, “political appointees” receiving “payback”. There is no political system in the world where this doesn’t occur on a frequent basis. It is endemic and has led to many wars and bloodshed, suffering, oppression, and inequality.

Part time workers volunteer unselfish service

The same selection process used for leaders (see above) is also used for all workers (teachers, administrators, etc) is the same as is followed as for leaders. When an assignment is made the acceptance rate in the Church is somewhere north of 90%. I have served as a counselor to two Bishops and tasked with making the official “call” to individual leaders and workers. I had only one person ever say “no”. That is my experience. Under this system, one can only give, not take. One works at making an independent living for their own physical maintenance⁴⁰ and then volunteers part time service to the community.

.

Paid, full time, permanent, salaried workers invested in the status quo of the leader that employs them. Unfortunately this class of workers, especially if “unionized” will try to insure that that things remain the same. They have every incentive to support their own recompense or “entitlements” as a primary goal rather than to place the good of the people they serve as first.

Stable laws, rules, and expectations

Christ’s Church does not change direction on a whim. It does adapt and respond to changes in society but the core principles remain consistent, with just shifts in emphasis from time to time as needs and challenges arise. Stability is inherent because everything is focused on divine principles which do not change. Critics will disagree and cite various changes in Church policy and procedure, but they are wrong – the principles do not change. People do change however and God asks more of those who are ready to receive and less of those who are not yet ready. He mercifully gives us time to adapt, improve, and sometimes repent. Latter-day Saints expect and hope for more change⁴¹ in the future as we, as a people, become more worthy and capable — until finally we can be worthy of Jesus’ presence in every day life. Under this kind of environment, everyone has incentive to excel and are free to do great things because they know what is of value and receive respect and recognition from those they serve.

.

Laws changed frequently and are enforced selectively based on favoritism and cronyism and payoffs. Under this system, one hesitates to invest personal time, resources, and money because it could be taken away arbitrarily. No one has incentive to work extra or aspire to greatness. Everyone knows when the “fix” is in and when taking an honest initiative is a waste of time at best and dangerous at worst. When this type of environment becomes extreme, all transactions must be paid for immediately, “cash on the barrel” because there is no trust in the individual or the laws or the future.

Consent of the governed

True transparency in public affairs. It is God’s Church and Christ’s Kingdom. However, the divine principle that applies is “common consent⁴²“. The leaders of the Church are “sustained” in their responsibilities. By the raise of the right hand (the traditional Old Testament “covenant hand”) members agree to follow their leaders, agree to accept scripture, agree to new leadership, agree to major changes in policy. Or not. It is rare but I have seen people raise their hand in opposition to a proposal. In fact, I did it once myself. A man was presented for sustaining vote as a teacher of a youth class and I knew, and knew the Bishop knew, that he had been in some trouble or suspicion for child molestation. So I raised my hand as being “not in favor”. This means I would be asked to explain my concern after the meeting, which I did when I spoke to one the the Bishops councilors. He told me the Bishopric was aware of the reasons for my concern but said they “knew what they were doing” and asked me to support the action. I didn’t agree that it was a good idea but did agree to accept and support the Bishopric’s decision. However, about two weeks later the man was released, so my concerns were probably well founded. It’s a great system. Everybody is kept informed of what is going on, and so there’s a little more pressure on the leaders to make sure their decisions are wise ones that can be well justified. However there is very rarely a need to oppose a proposal in public meeting as ideas and people get vetted in the Ward Council meeting and Bishopric meetings and by their own conduct. A faithful Latter-day Saint would never oppose an action for anything but a significant reason. We covenant to support our leaders and each other and, in return, we get that support back. Really, we become true and faithful friends united in the great cause of helping one another.

.

Force and/or deception must be used to govern and stay in power. Spend more money to get more influence. Under this system, everything and everybody is for sale. Principle matters not nearly as much as personal loyalty to the one in power whether it is actually deserved or not. Rather than do the right thing or seek honest feedback the pressure is to “get it done” in whatever way is necessary. Under this system, the ends always justify the means.

Material and financial support

I have seen many Church leaders put in 20+ hours a week in volunteer time in pursuit of their duty in fulfilling Church responsibilities. All local volunteers are part time and work in non-paid positions – and many of the full time leaders serve without pay also. The requirement is to work for the sole purpose of serving God⁴³ and with no other agenda. It is a scriptural principle⁴⁴. One simply can’t be effectively independant when doing it for the money⁴⁵. On the other hand, there are paid staff positions and (CES, Church Education System) instructors within the Church as well as a “modest stipend”⁴⁶ granted to full-time Church leaders (general authorities) from non-tithing funds (that is, income from Church properties and businesses and not from donations) – those who are full time in their efforts and who need it in order to serve. Many full time leaders are able to serve without the assistance if they have retirement or other income.

Ordinary members of Church may receive welfare assistance⁴⁷ in the form of training, commodities from the Bishops storehouse, and direct funds according to special needs, which help people become self sufficient. In return, those being helped labor and accept any special work assignments that may be given them. Those in need do not receive assistance for the purpose of “maintaining their lifestyle” but rather are taught and helped to reach a condition in which they are 100% self-sufficient in their needs.

.

Lavish pay for leaders with as many perks as possible, at the expense of ordinary citizens. This happens today in the US where public employees, Senators, Congressmen, and Presidents live in high style on the public dime and make sure their power and influence translate into personal gain. They rationalize that it’s not that much money and that they deserve it. In some countries this attitude devolves into outright robbery where the leadership class lives in luxury at the permanent expense of the rest.

Every citizen has a say and a vote

Everyone having a say is much more than simply giving a sustaining vote. LDS Church members have a lot of opportunity for input. Often they have a church responsibility (calling) that allows for plenty of feedback in meetings both public and private, plus frequent personal interviews with leaders. One LDS joke is that we have a fourteenth article of faith that begins with “We believe in meetings…”. There is also one Sunday a month where anyone, including children, can walk to the podium and say anything on the spur of the moment. Typically, this is to express thanks to God or friends for assistance received, growth experiences, good-byes, sharing of personal testimony and experience, and/or all of the above. We are all connected. No one need stand alone. Everyone is heard.

.

To have a say, costs money or requires a power base of followers. Votes can be bought or forged if necessary. Under this environment, “having a say” is usually construed as being in opposition and that means you are the enemy and need to be put down or at least watched carefully. Who cares about your opinion anyway? The leader will make all the decisions and provide you with the incentives (or threats) and your job is to simply follow and get along. You are told that it’s “for your own good”.

Simple flat tax with a single rate

It’s calling tithing⁴⁸. 10% of gross personal income. Just move the decimal one place to the left. No complications. No 75,000 page library of IRS regulations. No tax accountants. Each person makes their own ethical decision if his/her tithing is “full” and declares it to the Bishop at year-end and receives a final official financial statement. Those who fail to pay are not physically cast out or shunned or imprisoned, but they do not have all the same privileges as a member in good standing. There is no disincentive for the wealthy. There is no dividing people into classes based on how much they pay. The wealthy and poor pay exactly the same: 10%. They are equal. If the poor cannot meet their basic needs, they are still expected to pay tithing on what they have. Assistance, education, training, and help are given so they can become independent.

.

Complex and extravagant tax system to control the populace and reward the rulers and their supporters. The money and property is taken forcibly, not given voluntarily, and the reason given is “it is for your own good”. Failure to pay brings penalties and maybe severe punishment. Most government assistance to the populate is distributed with great inefficiencies in the form of a “dole” in a way that promotes dependency rather than independence.

Final decisions made locally

Policy decisions are made by the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve, Presiding Bishopric, and Presidents of Seventy. There is uniformity throughout the Church as regards policy, rules, curriculum in classes, etc. Each leader has a “handbook” (usually about 30 pages) that explains all Church policies relating to their leadership responsibility. How these policies are implemented is up to the local leaders who have authority to make exceptions to meet the specific needs of individuals or unusual circumstances. Local leaders also have authority to make decisions when counseling with local members. When Latter-day Saints write to church headquarters for advice and guidance they are directed back to their local leaders. There is in the the Latter-day Church a near perfect balance between centralized leadership and local control. The goal and the trend is for more and more local control, and the policy handbooks are getting thinner and thinner. The Prophet Joseph Smith once said⁴⁹, “I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves”. This same principle remains actively in effect in todays Church.

.

Centralized leadership and decision making with limited or no input at the local level. This ensures that power remains in the hands of a few. Sharing power is done very reluctantly and with jealousy as it may threaten the central leaders authority.

Leadership rotation

While it is often considered an honor to serve, there is no dishonor in being “released” from a responsibility. It is expected anyway. Rotation is the norm and it keeps things healthy. New perspectives are regularly introduced and people don’t get “burned out”. Those released often immediately receive a new assignment that is different. Long time service in the Church provides many perspectives and a lot of practical experience. It is a healthy approach. Most Church assignments last 1-3 years. Some leadership assignments last longer. Bishops usually serve around five years. Ward and Stake clerks often last 5+ years. Stake Presidents around 10 years. Average length of service for all Church positions at the Ward and Stake level is about 3 years. Even if a person is released (never “let go”) for incompetence, they are honorably released. The only dishonor directed is that which they might bring on themselves through public action (or inaction). It is, after all, a volunteer system, and every effort is appreciated. Praise and honor is often lavished where deserved and any negative perspective is downplayed, even if deserved. The strength of this system is the broad experience it provides and the ease in which effective leaders can be trained/developed and poor leaders re-assigned.

.

Leaders use their position to keep and hold onto power for as long a possible and by any means necessary so that can keep power and continue to insure personal benefits while growing their power base.

These may be quaint observations to the ordinary outside observer, however the Latter-day Saints understand that the Kingdom of God is REAL. It exists today in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints⁵⁰ and it WORKS. It is the system that shall be at the very core of the Kingdom of Heaven, which is the future of our planet. The meek⁵¹ will indeed rule the earth⁵².

References

¹DC 65

6 Wherefore, may the kingdom of God go forth, that the kingdom of heaven may come, that thou, O God, mayest be glorified in heaven so on earth, that thine enemies may be subdued; for thine is the honor, power and glory, forever and ever. Amen.

²Matthew 6:33

33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

³Mark 1:15

14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,
15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

⁴Romans 14:17 & Luke 17:21

17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

⁵Luke 12:31

31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

⁶Luke 12:31

15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

⁷Mormon 7

10 … therefore ye are numbered among the people of the first covenant; and if it so be that ye believe in Christ, and are baptized, first with water, then with fire and with the Holy Ghost, following the example of our Savior, according to that which he hath commanded us, it shall be well with you in the day of judgment. Amen.

⁸DC 132

12 I am the Lord thy God; and I give unto you this commandment—that no man shall come unto the Father but by me or by my word, which is my law, saith the Lord.

⁹John 14

2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

¹⁰Alma 11

37 And I say unto you again that he cannot save them in their sins; for I cannot deny his word, and he hath said that no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore, how can ye be saved, except ye inherit the kingdom of heaven? Therefore, ye cannot be saved in your sins.

¹¹Matthew 18

3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

¹²Articles of Faith, DC 133, Moses 7

10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

56 And the graves of the saints shall be opened; and they shall come forth and stand on the right hand of the Lamb, when he shall stand upon Mount Zion, and upon the holy city, the New Jerusalem; and they shall sing the song of the Lamb, day and night forever and ever.

62 And righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth, to bear testimony of mine Only Begotten; his resurrection from the dead; yea, and also the resurrection of all men; and righteousness and truth will I cause to sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out mine elect from the four quarters of the earth, unto a place which I shall prepare, an Holy City, that my people may gird up their loins, and be looking forth for the time of my coming; for there shall be my tabernacle, and it shall be called Zion, a New Jerusalem.

¹³DC 76, Matthew 26, Mark 8, DC 45

63 These are they whom he shall bring with him, when he shall come in the clouds of heaven to reign on the earth over his people.
64 … nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

43 For verily I say unto you, That he shall come; and he that layeth down his life for my sake and the gospel’s, shall come with him, and shall be clothed with his glory in the cloud, on the right hand of the Son of Man.

44 And then they shall look for me, and, behold, I will come; and they shall see me in the clouds of heaven, clothed with power and great glory; with all the holy angels; and he that watches not for me shall be cut off.

¹⁴DC 133, Isaiah 63, DC 88, DC 76

50 And his voice shall be heard: I have trodden the wine-press alone, and have brought judgment upon all people; and none were with me;

3 I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment.

106 And again, another angel shall sound his trump, which is the seventh angel, saying: It is finished; it is finished! The Lamb of God hath overcome and trodden the wine-press alone, even the wine-press of the fierceness of the wrath of Almighty God.

107 When he shall deliver up the kingdom, and present it unto the Father, spotless, saying: I have overcome and have trodden the wine-press alone, even the wine-press of the fierceness of the wrath of Almighty God.

¹⁵John 18,

33 Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?
36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

¹⁶Matthew 26

53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

¹⁷DC 86

5 Behold, verily I say unto you, the angels are crying unto the Lord day and night, who are ready and waiting to be sent forth to reap down the fields;

¹⁸DC 38, Revelation 20

11 For all flesh is corrupted before me; and the powers of darkness prevail upon the earth, among the children of men, in the presence of all the hosts of heaven—
12 Which causeth silence to reign, and all eternity is pained, and the angels are waiting the great command to reap down the earth, to gather the tares that they may be burned; and, behold, the enemy is combined.

6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

¹⁹John 1

1 In the beginning was the gospel preached through the Son. And the gospel was the word, and the word was with the Son, and the Son was with God, and the Son was of God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made which was made.

²⁰John 3, John 13

35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.

3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;

²¹John 5

22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:

²²1 Nephi 22

11 Wherefore, the Lord God will proceed to make bare his arm in the eyes of all the nations, in bringing about his covenants and his gospel unto those who are of the house of Israel.

²³Luke 21 & Matthew 24 (JST)

36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

46 And what I say unto one, I say unto all men; watch, therefore, for you know not at what hour your Lord doth come.
47 But know this, if the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to have been broken up, but would have been ready.
48 Therefore be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of Man cometh.

²⁴Matthew 25

21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

²⁵DC 27

5 … marvel not, for the hour cometh that I will adrink of the fruit of the vine with you on the earth, and with Moroni, whom I have sent unto you to reveal the Book of Mormon, containing the fulness of my everlasting gospel, to whom I have committed the keys of the record of the stick of Ephraim;
6 And also with Elias, to whom I have committed the keys of bringing to pass the restoration of all things spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began, concerning the last days;
7 And also John the son of Zacharias, which Zacharias he (Elias) visited and gave promise that he should have a son, and his name should be John, and he should be filled with the spirit of Elias;
8 Which John I have sent unto you, my servants, Joseph Smith, Jun., and Oliver Cowdery, to ordain you unto the first priesthood which you have received, that you might be called and ordained even as Aaron;
\9 And also Elijah, unto whom I have committed the keys of the power of turning the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers, that the whole earth may not be smitten with a curse;
10 And also with Joseph and Jacob, and Isaac, and Abraham, your fathers, by whom the promises remain;
11 And also with Michael, or Adam, the father of all, the prince of all, the ancient of days;
12 And also with Peter, and James, and John, whom I have sent unto you, by whom I have ordained you and confirmed you to be apostles, and especial witnesses of my name, and bear the keys of your ministry and of the same things which I revealed unto them;
13 Unto whom I have committed the keys of my kingdom, and a dispensation of the gospel for the last times; and for the fulness of times, in the which I will gather together in gone all things, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth;
14 And also with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world.
15 Wherefore, lift up your hearts and brejoice, and gird up your loins, and take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand.

²⁶Daniel 10, Matthew 28, Joseph Smith—History 1

6 His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow.

32 Not only was his [Moroni’s] robe exceedingly white, but his whole person was glorious beyond description, and his countenance truly like lightning. The room was exceedingly light, but not so very bright as immediately around his person.

²⁷Alma 40

23 The soul shall be restored to the body, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame.

²⁸Doctrine and Covenants 76, Doctrine and Covenants 63

53 And who overcome by faith, and are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, which the Father sheds forth upon all those who are just and true.

20 Nevertheless, he that endureth in faith and doeth my will, the same shall overcome, and shall receive an inheritance upon the earth when the day of transfiguration shall come;

²⁹Zechariah 13, 1 Nephi 20

9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God.

10 For, behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

³⁰Revelation 3

12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

³¹Matthew 25

23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

³²Romans 8

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

³³DC 115

4 For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
5 Verily I say unto you all: Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations;

³⁴DC 121

33 How long can rolling waters remain impure? What power shall stay the heavens? As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowledge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints.

³⁵DC 21

2 Being inspired of the Holy Ghost to lay the foundation thereof, and to build it up unto the most holy faith.
3 Which church was organized and established in the year of your Lord eighteen hundred and thirty, in the fourth month, and on the sixth day of the month which is called April.

³⁶John 15

16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

³⁷1 Nephi 20

10 For, behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

³⁸DC 38, 3 Nephi 28

27 Behold, this I have given unto you as a parable, and it is even as I am. I say unto you, be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine.

10 And for this cause ye shall have fulness of joy; and ye shall sit down in the kingdom of my Father; yea, your joy shall be full, even as the Father hath given me fulness of joy; and ye shall be even as I am, and I am even as the Father; and the Father and I are one;

³⁹DC 38, Revelation 20

⁴⁰Mosiah 27, Mosiah 18, Alma 30

5 Yea, and all their priests and teachers should labor with their own hands for their support, in all cases save it were in sickness, or in much want; and doing these things, they did abound in the grace of God.

26 And the priests were not to depend upon the people for their support; but for their labor they were to receive the grace of God, that they might wax strong in the Spirit, having the knowledge of God, that they might teach with power and authority from God.

32 Now Alma said unto him: Thou knowest that we do not glut ourselves upon the labors of this people; for behold I have labored even from the commencement of the reign of the judges until now, with mine own hands for my support, notwithstanding my many travels round about the land to declare the word of God unto my people.

⁴¹2 Nephi 28

30 For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.

⁴²DC 26

2 And all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith, for all things you shall receive by faith. Amen.

⁴³DC 30, DC 88

1 Behold, blessed, saith the Lord, are they who have come … with an eye single to my glory, according to my commandments.

67 And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things.

⁴⁴2 Nephi 26

131 But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish

⁴⁵Acts 8

20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.
21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.
22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

⁴⁶DC 42

71 And the elders or high priests who are appointed to assist the bishop as counselors in all things, are to have their families supported out of the property which is consecrated to the bishop, for the good of the poor, and for other purposes, as before mentioned;
72 Or they are to receive a just remuneration for all their services, either a stewardship or otherwise, as may be thought best or decided by the counselors and bishop.

⁴⁷DC 42

31 And inasmuch as ye impart of your substance unto the poor, ye will do it unto me; and they shall be laid before the bishop of my church and his counselors, two of the elders, or high priests, such as he shall appoint or has appointed and set apart for that purpose.

⁴⁸DC 119, Deuteronomy 14

4 And after that, those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest [increase] annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them forever, for my holy priesthood, saith the Lord.

28 … thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates:

⁴⁹John Taylor, November 1851, Millennial Star 13:22 page 339

Concerning government: Some years ago, in Nauvoo, a gentleman in my hearing, a member of the Legislature, asked Joseph Smith how it was that he was enabled to govern so many people, and to preserve such perfect order; remarking at the same time that it was impossible for them to do it anywhere else. Mr. Smith remarked that it was very easy to do that. \”How?\” responded the gentleman; \”to us it is very difficult.\” Mr. Smith replied, \”I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.\”

⁵⁰DC 115, Matthew 5, DC 1

16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

30 … power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually—

⁵¹Matthew 5, Isaiah 11

5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.

⁵²DC 60

4 For I, the Lord, rule in the heavens above, and among the armies of the earth; and in the day when I shall make up my jewels, all men shall know what it is that bespeaketh the power of God.

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