Historical Background
On February 22, 1834, Joseph Smith received an eye-witness report from Church officers concerning the conditions of Church members in Missouri. He learned of the persecution of the members and of their terrible circumstances. They had been robbed and beaten and, in some instances, killed. After receiving this report, Joseph received a revelation. Heber C. Kimball wrote, “Brother Joseph received a revelation concerning the redemption of Zion, part of which remains yet to be fulfilled. He sent messengers to the east and to the north, to the west and to the south, to gather up the elders. And, he gathered together as many of the brethren as he conveniently could, with what means they could spare, to go up to Zion to render all the assistance that we could to our afflicted brethren. We gathered clothing and other necessaries to carry up to our brethren and sisters who had been plundered. And putting our horses to the wagons and taking our firelocks and ammunition, we started on our journey, leaving only Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, and a few aged workmen who were engaged at the Temple. So that there were very few men left in Kirtland” (Heber C. Kimball Journal, February 1834, Church Archives).
This group would be known as Zion’s Camp. Eventually, 205 people would join up with this group. Their plan was to arm the men who were in it and join with local government officials to help the Saints reclaim their property and bring justice to those who had broken the law.
D&C 103:1-5 Why Have They Suffered?
Why had the Saints in Jackson County, Missouri, suffered so much? How could they prevent this suffering in the future? How has hearkening to the counsel of the Lord prevented suffering in your own life?
D&C 103:6-14 The Salt of the Earth
When are Church members like good salt? When are they like salt that is not good for anything? What promise does the Lord make to those who obey? What promise does he make to those who do not obey?
D&C 103:15-21 A Promise to the Faithful
Who shall lead the members of the Church back to Jackson County to help Church members? What promise does the Lord make to those who follow this man?
D&C 103:22-28 Gather Together in Zion
What did the Lord instruct Joseph to do in order that the people in Jackson County could have their property and possessions given back to them? Why would it be important to gather wise men? Why would they need money? Why should these men not be afraid?
D&C 103:29-35 Gather Hundreds
What direction did the Lord give Joseph concerning the number of men who should go to Jackson County? Cross-reference: D&C 136:1-3; Exodus 18:21, 25-26.
D&C 103:36-40 The Conditions of Victory
What were the Lord’s conditions of victory? What did the men who were going to Missouri have to do in order to receive the Lord’s blessings and triumph over their enemies? What must Church members do to have freedom today?
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