Missionary work is a cornerstone of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, central to its belief in building up Zion—a term referring to the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. This involves both the spiritual and temporal salvation of individuals and the collective progress of communities. The scriptures and modern-day prophets are replete with inspiring pronouncements on the importance and nature of missionary work. This post delves into key LDS quotes on missionary work and how they relate to the broader concept of building Zion.
What is Zion in LDS Theology?
Before diving into the quotes, it’s crucial to understand the LDS perspective on Zion. It's not simply a geographical location, but a societal ideal characterized by righteousness, unity, peace, and love. Building Zion involves transforming individuals and communities into places reflecting God's will. Missionary work, therefore, is a vital instrument in achieving this divine purpose.
Key LDS Quotes on Missionary Work and Building Zion
Many powerful statements from LDS leaders highlight the significance of missionary service in building Zion. Here are a few examples:
"The establishment of Zion is the great objective of the Lord's work in this dispensation, and the preaching of the gospel is the means by which it is to be accomplished." – Joseph F. Smith
This quote clearly connects missionary work (preaching the gospel) directly with the ultimate goal of establishing Zion. It emphasizes the gospel's role as the primary tool for achieving this divine objective.
"The work of the Lord is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. The first step in the direction of that great object is the preaching of the Gospel." – Brigham Young
Brigham Young's statement illustrates the overarching mission of the Lord and positions missionary work as the foundational step in that mission. Bringing immortality and eternal life—which are essential components of Zion—begins with sharing the gospel.
"Every member a missionary" is not a program; it is a way of life. —Russell M. Nelson
President Nelson's statement emphasizes that missionary work transcends a temporal program; it's a continuous commitment woven into the fabric of a faithful member's life. This reflects the ongoing effort required to build Zion, a process that's not accomplished overnight.
What are the different types of missionary work?
Missionary work encompasses a variety of activities, extending beyond traditional proselyting. This includes:
- Traditional proselyting: Directly sharing the gospel message with individuals and inviting them to join the Church.
- Service: Acts of selfless service within one's community, reflecting the love and charity that are fundamental to Zion.
- Family history work: Researching and performing temple ordinances for ancestors, connecting living members to their heritage and fostering spiritual growth.
- Temple work: Participating in temple ordinances, contributing to the spiritual strength of both living and deceased members.
How does missionary work contribute to building Zion?
Missionary work contributes to the building of Zion in several crucial ways:
- Sharing the Gospel: The gospel message provides a framework for righteous living, promoting peace, unity, and love—essential elements of Zion.
- Strengthening Families: The gospel emphasizes the importance of family and strengthens families both temporally and spiritually, thereby enhancing the fabric of society.
- Building Communities: Missionary work fosters a sense of community among members, strengthening bonds of faith, charity, and mutual support.
- Promoting Self-Reliance: The gospel encourages self-reliance, enabling individuals and communities to become economically and spiritually independent—essential for a thriving Zion.
What is the role of temples in building Zion?
Temples play a vital role in building Zion. They are sacred spaces where individuals can make covenants with God and receive ordinances that empower them to live a celestial life. These ordinances, including baptisms for the dead, bind families for eternity and help to strengthen ties between generations, further contributing to the creation of a righteous community.
By embracing the principles outlined in these quotes and actively participating in various forms of missionary work, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints strive towards building Zion, both individually and collectively. It is a continuous process, requiring dedication, faith, and unwavering commitment to the principles of the gospel.
