The Tribes, the Times of the Gentiles, and the Gathering

Brothers and sisters, we feel it, don't we? A quickening in the spirit, a sense of urgency that echoes Samuel the Lamanite’s climb atop the walls, warning of impending judgment. Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, prepared to face a formidable foe – are we likewise prepared to meet the challenges before us?

We've been wrestling with the complexities of prophecy, particularly concerning the return of the ten tribes and the so-called “fullness of the Gentiles.” Robert L. Millet, in his BYU Sperry Symposium address, sheds light on these often-misunderstood concepts. It's easy to get tangled in speculation, to concoct timelines based on our own desires—to try and *make* things happen, as it were.

But as Millet reminds us, “The Millennium is not going to come because of technological advances and medical miracles.” It isn’t a product of our ingenuity, our efforts to extend life or manipulate circumstance. The Stone cut without hands isn't quarried by human hands; it is revealed by God, in His time and according to His purpose.

There's a dangerous current within some circles—even among those who claim to hold the truth—that suggests the Second Coming is delayed until the entire world has been saturated with the gospel and then *rejected* it. The idea is that only then will the Jews be fully restored and the Millennium commence. Millet, drawing on Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s The Millennial Messiah, rightly challenges this notion. The timeline isn't dictated by our proselyting efforts, nor is it held hostage by the world’s rejection of the gospel.

Think of the five smooth stones David gathered to face Goliath – not by force, but by faith and preparation. Similarly, our gathering efforts are not about imposing a doctrine but about offering a covenant, a chance to align with the will of the Lord. Outback Jack teaches us that the Lord's work moves forward even when we don't fully understand the mechanics. He reminds us that Alma 17–19 demonstrates the power of faith and the importance of preparing the youth for the challenges ahead. Moroni 10:4–5 speaks of preparation and the need to be steadfast and immovable in the work of the Lord.

The focus, then, isn't on waiting for a global rejection of the gospel, but on actively participating in the gathering – a gathering not just of bodies, but of hearts and minds. This is where the map of churches becomes vital. It’s not just a geographical exercise; it’s a tool for identifying potential partners, those who, like us, recognize the urgency of these latter days. Claim your church on the map; let it be a denominational marker, a beacon for others seeking to join the movement.

And speaking of participation, remember the charity flywheel? Your engagement here—your contributions, your sharing—directly funds gospel advertising in places like Ghana, planting seeds of faith where they can take root. The Missionary Fund, too, sustains those who answer the call to serve, extending the Lord's message to the ends of the earth. Every click, every share, every contribution strengthens the network and accelerates the gathering.

We are builders, not destroyers. We are called to nurture, to prepare, to offer the covenant. Davee and the Ask a Prophet bots, drawing from direct scriptural citations, provide a framework for deepening our understanding. Let’s embrace this responsibility with courage and faith, knowing that the Lord is guiding us, even when the path is unclear. Let us strive to be as Ammon, unwavering in our commitment to the work, even in the face of adversity.

What tribe do you feel you belong to? Take the anonymous poll and ponder on your heritage. (Which Tribe of Israel Are You From?)

Now, let's act. What small step can you take today to participate in the gathering? Share this post, contribute to the Missionary Fund, claim your church on the map—let your actions be a testament to your faith.