Doctrine and Covenants 118

The Heart of the Matter: Consecration and the United Order

At its core, D&C 133 lays out a vision for what the Church calls the "United Order." This isn't just some abstract economic theory; it's a way of life, a divinely inspired system designed to bring about Zion among God's people. The revelation itself states, in D&C 133:3, that the Lord's plan involves "that ye may be prepared to obtain these blessings which have been promised unto you through the exceeding great and exceeding precious promises of the Lord." This blessing, in large part, pertains to the establishment of Zion and the principles that govern it.

What does that preparation involve? It hinges on the principle of consecration. This means willingly dedicating our time, talents, and property to the Lord and His work. It’s about understanding that everything we have comes from Him and that we are merely stewards over His blessings.

More Than Just Giving: Stewardship and Equitable Sharing

The United Order, as outlined in D&C 133, is far more than just a charitable endeavor. It’s about establishing an economy where resources are managed with wisdom and shared equitably. This involves:

• Responsible Stewardship: We are taught to be wise and diligent in managing our "temporal inheritance." This means using what God has given us for our own needs and the needs of our families, but also for the building up of His kingdom.
• Equitable Distribution: The revelation hints at a system where those who have abundantly can help those who have less, ensuring that everyone has what they need. This isn't about enforced poverty but rather about ensuring that no one lacks while others have excess. As D&C 133:17 suggests, those who have received an abundance are to "impart of your abundance to the poor and the needy."
• Unity and Brotherhood: The ultimate goal of the United Order is to foster a spirit of unity and oneness among the Saints, mirroring the way Christ desires His followers to be. This economic principle is deeply intertwined with our eternal covenants and our journey towards salvation.

Connecting Earthly Prosperity with Eternal Covenants

What I find so powerful about D&C 133 is how it connects our earthly prosperity with our eternal covenants and our ultimate salvation. This isn't just about managing money; it's about learning to live according to God's principles, which will prepare us for eternal kingdoms.

Joseph Smith himself taught extensively about these principles. He understood that the establishment of Zion required a change in our hearts—a willingness to put God and His people before ourselves. The United Order, in its various historical expressions (and it's important to note it has been implemented in different ways throughout our history), is a practical application of this profound spiritual principle.

Why Does This Matter Today?

Even though the specific form of the United Order has evolved, the underlying principles of consecration, stewardship, and equitable sharing remain vital for every Latter-day Saint. As we navigate our own financial lives and seek to build Zion in our communities, we can learn from the divine blueprint revealed in D&C 133. It challenges us to look beyond personal gain and consider how we can use our resources to bless others and contribute to the gathering of Israel. It reminds us that true prosperity isn't solely measured by what we accumulate but by how we live and how we serve.

What are your thoughts on these principles?

How do you see the concepts from D&C 133 playing out in your life?

I'd love to hear your perspective in the comments below!