Key Points from the Article:

• Exile News and Joseph’s Prayer: On December 10, 1833, Joseph Smith received devastating news that the Saints in Missouri were being driven from their land, despite having purchased it legally. Joseph, who had hoped for justice through the legal system, was deeply saddened. Unsure why the Lord allowed this, he prayed for the Saints’ return and asked God to remove their unrepentant enemies. A week later, Section 101 was revealed in response to his prayer.

• Purpose of Trials and Call to Sanctification: In Section 101, the Lord explained that these trials were part of the Saints’ sanctification and a call to cultivate unity and purity in their efforts to build Zion. The Saints were encouraged to abandon contention, jealousy, and covetousness, qualities that would hinder the establishment of Zion. The Lord reassured them, however, that despite their struggles, His mercy would prevail, and Zion would eventually be redeemed.

• Acknowledgment of Injustice: The Lord recognized the unfairness of the Saints’ suffering, explaining that He allowed these challenges to draw them closer to Him. While some Saints had neglected past revelations on gathering, consecrating resources, and building a temple, these hardships helped renew their focus. The Lord promised that Zion would be established in the millennial day, a time of purity, peace, and divine enlightenment.

• Parable of Stewardship: Through a parable, the Lord compared the Saints’ oversight in Zion to servants who neglected their duties in protecting a vineyard. By delaying temple construction and mismanaging resources, the Saints had left themselves exposed to their enemies. The Lord urged them to recommit to His commandments, promising that Zion’s redemption would follow their obedience. They were instructed to gather resources, increase their numbers through preaching, and purchase land systematically and lawfully.

• Seeking Redress and Retaining Land: The Lord advised the Saints to appeal to government officials for justice, assuring them that He would intervene if officials disregarded their pleas. He commanded them to retain ownership of their land in Missouri, resisting the pressure to sell. The revelation concluded with an explanation that Zion’s delay was a result of disobedience, underscoring that blessings are conditional upon faithful adherence to His commandments. The timing of Zion’s redemption would depend on their choices and dedication.

Read full article here:

https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-101