Doctrine and Covenants Section 57

Historical Background

Section 52 designated that 14 pairs of missionaries leave for Missouri. This revelation was given in early June, 1831. By mid-June the Prophet Joseph Smith and other leaders of the Church began their journey. They traveled by wagon to Cincinnati, Ohio; then by wagon, canal boat, and stage to Louisville, Kentucky; then by steamer to St. Louis, Missouri; and on foot from St. Louis to Independence, Missouri ( a distance of 242 miles). The trip took approximately one month. There was a joyous reunion. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, together with their associates, had not seen each other in many weeks. Joseph said the gathering was “moistened with many tears” (Times and Seasons, 15 February 1844). The promise of the Lord was that when these missionaries had gathered He would reveal the location of the New Jerusalem and the place where the temple of that city was to be built.

D&C 57:1-5 The Center Place of the City of Zion

As you read these verses, think of what it must have meant to the Church members who had sacrificed all that they had to come to Missouri. Remember what the scriptures said about the New Jerusalem (see Ether 13:2-11; Revelation 21:10-27; Moses 7:62-64). These verses speak of “the line running directly between Jew and Gentile” (57:4). Remember that the Prophet Joseph sent missionaries to the Lamanites, the descendants of Lehi. Joseph saw the American Indians who lived near Western Missouri as descendants of Lehi, who came from Jerusalem and was therefore a Jew. The purpose of the Book of Mormon was “to the convincing of Jew and Gentile that JESUS is the CHRIST, the ETERNAL GOD, manifesting himself unto all nations” (see Title Page of the Book of Mormon). Throughout his ministry, the Prophet Joseph Smith had a special feeling about the American Indians because of this feeling that they were descended from the Jews.

D&C 57:6-16 Directions to the Faithful

In these verses, the Lord gives specific direction to Church leaders so that the Church might be established in Missouri. In verses 6-10 instructions are given to Sidney Gilbert and Edward Partridge. What were they supposed to do to help those who would be coming to Missouri? What specific calling was William W. Phelps given? See verses 11-12. What about Oliver Cowdery? See verse 13. Summarize the instructions given to members who were coming to Missouri and those who would remain in Ohio. What appears to be the concern of the Lord as the city of New Jerusalem is established? What things should we be concerned about as we attempt to establish Zion in our own lives?