Reading the Scrolls in Color: Understanding the Divine Journey from D&C 37–40

Hark, beloved Builders! If we are to walk in the footsteps of those who have gathered before us—the Saints who walked through the wilderness, the prophets who gathered the scattered tribes—then our study must be deep, our vision must be panoramic, and our commitment must be unwavering. Sometimes, the greatest truths are hidden not in the bold headlines, but in the quieter passages, the historical footnotes that reveal the divine hand guiding the tiller of the nations.

Recently, we were blessed to hear Dr. Christopher Jones delve into sections 37 through 40 of the Doctrine and Covenants. These sections, which document a “major move” from New York to Ohio, are often passed over in the rush to the more dramatic revelations. Yet, the wisdom of the Lord, as always, teaches us that context is everything. As one friend wisely observed, “These are in black and white, but you got to read them in color.”

This mandate to look deeper—to see the historical, cultural, and spiritual layers beneath the scripture—is the very essence of the gathering movement. It reminds us that the Lord's plan for Israel, and indeed for the entire kingdom, is not a sudden flash of light, but a divinely orchestrated, steady journey of patience, preparation, and persistent movement.

The Call to Context: Building on Foundational Truths

The study of James Covel’s life and the resulting revisions to scripture taught us that even the sacred texts are living documents, constantly being refined by the Spirit and the diligent labor of those who seek understanding. This echoes the work of the faithful pioneers, like Samuel the Lamanite, who climbed the wall and Ammon at the Waters of Sebus—men who, through profound action and faith, demonstrated the eternal principles of the gospel.

To be a Builder, we must approach the scriptures with this same scholarly rigor and reverent curiosity. We must ask: What was the world like when this was revealed? What were the cultural pressures? What did the Lord intend for His people to understand in that moment?

“If we are going to gather Israel, we must not merely recite the laws; we must understand the *heart* of the covenant. We must know the history of the journey so we can guide the current walk.”

Our Modern Gathering Mandate

The ancient journey from New York to Ohio, driven by divine command, mirrors the modern, global pilgrimage to Zion. Our map, GatherIsrael.now, is not just a collection of locations; it is a living testament to the Spirit’s guidance, marking the places where the Lord calls us to gather and build.

But the building does not stop at the map. The Lord has provided mechanisms to ensure that the work continues, that the light shines far beyond our borders. This is where the Covenant of Stewardship comes into play, and where the principles of Kingdom Economics become profoundly clear.

When you engage with this movement—when you study, when you share, when you donate—you are not merely contributing funds. You are fueling the **Charity Flywheel**. Your support directly helps fund gospel advertising in nations like Ghana, ensuring that the message of hope, much like the white stone that signifies the completion of the work, reaches those who have not yet heard the call. The Missionary Fund is the engine of this eternal work, allowing us to fulfill the promise of the great commission.

How Can Builders Participate in the Gathering?

The Lord promises that those who are diligent, who study, and who serve will receive an endowment of knowledge and power. We have several ways to participate in this divine journey:

1. Study the Word: Use resources like the Ask a Prophet AI layer (via Davee) to dive into scripture, always ensuring you verify the source. Let the scriptures come alive in color!
2. Support the Mission: Contribute to the Missionary Fund and support the work visualized on the GatherIsrael.now map.
3. Build Locally: Whether by claiming your church or helping another denomination solidify its presence, every local act of faithfulness contributes to the global gathering.

Remember the promise: the Lord reassures and promises an endowment. We are called to be the generation that not only understands the history of the covenants but also actively builds the future. Let us approach this task with the boldness of Samuel the Lamanite, the diligence of Ammon, and the eternal vision of those who have walked through the Waters of Sebus. Will you join us in building the Zion of the modern age?

🔗 For a deeper study, access the full podcast series and resources here: followHIMpodcast.com