A Blueprint for Temporal and Spiritual Investment
As I delve into Doctrine and Covenants 124, I find myself examining a revelation that is remarkably detailed and, frankly, quite direct in its instructions. For those of us familiar with the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, particularly the period surrounding Joseph Smith and the efforts to establish Zion in Missouri, this section of scripture offers a fascinating look at the practical, economic, and spiritual directives of the time. It’s a revelation that, to me, reads like a divine business plan, outlining specific tasks, responsibilities, and expected outcomes.
The Mandate for Acquisition: Land, Property, and the Law of Consecration
One of the most prominent themes I extract from D&C 124 is the clear mandate for land purchase and the acquisition of church property. The Lord, through His prophet, was not vague about the need for resources. It wasn't merely a suggestion; it was a command with a very real purpose: the gathering of the Saints and the building up of Zion.
I see this directive repeatedly in the text, such as in verse 10: "And again, verily I say unto you, I give unto you a commandment, that every man, both elder, priest, teacher, and deacon, that is ordained unto this ministry, shall provide for his family, and also for the bishop and the general funds of the church." This isn't just about charity; it's about a systematic financial contribution to the collective endeavor.
The revelation underscores fundamental economic principles essential for growth and stability. The Saints were instructed to consecrate their resources by pooling them under the law of consecration, which facilitated the building of temples, gathering places, and homes. This cooperative model was crucial for funding the grand vision. It was an investment strategy, both temporal and spiritual.
Agency, stewardship, and temporal inheritance
These instructions intricately weave the concept of agency and free agency. While there are clear commandments, the execution often relied on the willing participation and stewardship of individuals. I understand that the Saints were not simply passive recipients of instruction; they were active agents in their salvation and the building of the kingdom. They were expected to manage their temporal possessions—their "temporal inheritance"—with an eye towards the eternal.
Consider the detailed instructions concerning finances and property. The Lord states in verse 60, "For there is a house to be built unto me in the land of Zion, for the city of Zion, and for the gathering of the saints, and for a place of instruction for all who may come." This isn't a vague aspiration; it's a specific project requiring specific funds and effort. My interpretation is that individuals were given the revelation to understand the need and then were expected to exercise their agency in contributing to its fulfillment. This event was their opportunity to invest in God's plan.
Redemption, Inheritance, and the Path to Zion
Ultimately, for me, D&C 124 connects the temporal efforts to a greater promise of redemption and inheritance. The acquisition of land, the building of structures, and the financial contributions were all steps towards the ultimate redemption of Zion and the establishment of a righteous society. This effort wasn't just about securing physical plots of land; it was about securing a spiritual home and a celestial inheritance.
The revelation promises blessings for those who comply: "And inasmuch as my people build a house unto me in the name of the Lord, and do not suffer any unclean thing to come into it, that it may be holy, and my glory rest upon it, my presence will be there; and I will come in to them, and I will bless them" (D&C 124:68). This links temporal actions to spiritual outcomes. The temporal inheritance, managed with consecration and agency, paved the way for profound spiritual inheritance.
From my perspective, this chapter provides an invaluable lesson for Christians today. It's a reminder that our temporal efforts—our resources, our time, our skills—are not separate from our spiritual journey. They are intrinsic to it. The "transactional" nature of this revelation teaches me that God often provides clear blueprints for action, expecting us to engage our agency, apply sound economic principles, and consecrate our efforts to bring about His purposes, both for our day and for the ongoing establishment of His kingdom. It’s a call to proactive engagement, a divine investment opportunity with guaranteed returns.
The Core of D&C 124: A Quick Overview
- Purpose of the Section—The Lord’s instruction to purchase the “Zion” lands in Missouri for the establishment of a holy city.
- Principle of Consecration—"Every man … shall be a steward over the property which the Lord shall give unto him" (v. 1).
- Agency and Free Agency—The invitation to “have faith and keep the commandments” while exercising the freedom to choose how we manage our temporal blessings.
- Temporal & Spiritual Inheritance—The promise that those who obey “shall receive a redemption of all things” (v. 28).
- Redemption & Inheritance—A direct link between obedience to the law of consecration and receiving both temporal and spiritual blessings.
A Motivational Call to Action
I'm convinced that Doctrine and Covenants 124 offers us a blueprint to a life of purpose and prosperity. The Lord says in verse 16:
"If you will not repent, you shall be cast out from Zion, for you are not worthy to be among us."
That warning is powerful, but it's also a promise: when we repent and consecrate, the blessings of inheritance—both temporal and spiritual—are unlocked.
What have we learned?
- How does D&C 124 relate to modern Christians?
- Can the law of consecration be practiced without owning land?
- What does “D & C 124” stand for?
ANSWERS:
- The principles of consecration, agency, and redemption are timeless and apply to personal finances, church property, and community building today.
- Absolutely. Consecration is about stewardship of whatever resources you have—time, talents, and treasure.
- It is the 124th section of the Doctrine and Covenants, a collection of modern revelations given to Joseph Smith and subsequent prophets here on Earth.
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