Church History Matters - Episode 124 Summary: D&C 55-57 CFM - Why Zion Had to Start Here

Release Date: May 21, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 124 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosted by Scripture Central, Scott and Casey delve deep into Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) sections 55 to 57. These sections are pivotal in understanding the early revelations received by Joseph Smith in Missouri, particularly concerning the establishment of Zion. This episode unpacks the intricacies of these revelations, the notable figures involved, and the lasting impact on the Latter-day Saint movement.

Overview of D&C Sections 55-57

Sections 55-57 of the Doctrine and Covenants mark a significant period in early Latter-day Saint history. These revelations outline the establishment of Zion, introduce key church figures, and set the foundation for future church infrastructure and educational initiatives.

William Wines Phelps: His Role and Controversies

William Wines Phelps emerges as a central figure in these sections. A gifted writer, poet, and newspaperman, Phelps played a crucial role in shaping early church publications and hymns.

• Early Conversion and Challenges: Phelps initially hesitated to join the church despite his conviction in the Book of Mormon. His dedication led him to research the burgeoning religious movement, resulting in his arrest for promoting the Book of Mormon (see [00:24] A).

  "My heart was there from the time I became acquainted with the Book of Mormon. And my hope, steadfast like an anchor, and my faith increased like grass after a refreshing shower." ([00:47] A)

• Contributions: As the editor of the Ontario Phoenix, Phelps's literary talents were instrumental in producing hymns beloved by church members worldwide.

• Controversies and Redemption: Phelps's life was marked by both controversy and redemption. He faced persecution for his abolitionist views and was temporarily estranged from the church but eventually reconciled and continued his service, including composing the enduring hymn, "Praise to the Man." [07:17] A

Doctrine and Covenants 55: Phelps’s Calling and Early Ministry

Section 55 details Phelps's calling as a church printer and his immediate obedience to Joseph Smith's direction.

• Revelation and Baptism: Phelps receives a revelation calling him to baptism and ordaining him as an elder to assist Oliver Cowdery in church printing endeavors.

  "Thou art called and chosen, and after thou hast been baptized by water... thou shalt have a remission of thy sins and a reception of the Holy Spirit." ([04:07] B)

• Educational Initiatives: This section underscores the importance of education within the church, highlighting the establishment of schools for children and adults—a precursor to the church's enduring emphasis on education.

  "Education is not merely a good idea, it is a commandment." ([10:53] A)

Doctrine and Covenants 56: Missionary Challenges and Divine Adjustments

Section 56 addresses challenges faced by missionaries Thomas B. Marsh and Ezra Thayer, emphasizing the Lord's respect for human agency and His ability to adjust divine commands based on obedience.

• Missionary Delays: Ezra Thayer's delay in embarking on his mission leads to a revelation expressing divine displeasure and adjustments to missionary assignments.

  "I the Lord command and revoke, as it seemeth me good. And all this shall be answered upon the heads of the rebellious." ([15:15] B)

• Themes of Repentance and Agency: The revelation emphasizes the necessity of humility and obedience, aligning with biblical narratives where rebellion leads to divine consequences.

  "He that will not take up his cross and follow me and keep my commandments, the same shall not be saved." ([15:15] A)

• Controversial References: The section references an uncanonized revelation regarding Ezra Thayer's duties, sparking discussions on the Doctrine and Covenants' canonization process.

  "There are several uncanonized revelations that we have in the manuscript revelation books that didn't get placed into the Doctrine and Covenants." ([24:39] A)

Doctrine and Covenants 57: Revelation of Zion’s Location in Missouri

Section 57 is a landmark revelation announcing the location of Zion in Jackson County, Missouri, fulfilling decades of prophetic anticipation.

• Announcement of Zion’s Location: The Lord designates Independence, Missouri, as the center of Zion, outlining plans for a comprehensive temple complex.

  "This is the land of promise and the place for the city of Zion." ([31:39] B)

• Land Acquisition and Infrastructure: The revelation commands the church to purchase extensive land surrounding Independence to establish a sustainable and spiritually vibrant community.

  "It is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the saints and also every tract lying westward." ([31:39] B)

• Strategic Planning: Assignments are given to church leaders like Sidney Gilbert and Edward Partridge to manage land sales and community organization, ensuring the practical establishment of Zion.

  "Let my servant Edward Partridge stand in the office which I have appointed him to divide into the saints their inheritance." ([34:32] A)

Controversies and Interpretations

The revelations in §§55-57 have sparked various interpretations and controversies:

• Location of Zion: A significant debate revolves around whether Jackson County, Missouri, is the literal and sole location for Zion or part of a broader, perhaps more symbolic, global concept of Zion.

  "Do we believe that Jackson County is literally the place where Jesus is going to return and he's going to where the City of Zion will be built?" ([40:02] A)

• Harmonizing Revelations: The tension between later revelations, such as D&C 124, which suggest a reevaluation of Zion's location, and earlier proclamations, fuels ongoing theological discussions.

  "The latest official word of the Lord is section 124... I don't require that anymore at your hands." ([44:04] B)

• Viewpoints on Expansion: Differing perspectives on whether Zion remains tied to a single geographical location or expands as a spiritual community resonate with broader interpretations of scripture and prophetic teachings.

  "Maybe we can think of Zion not so much as one city, but as a network of temple cities that collectively are the City of Zion or the New Jerusalem." ([48:09] B)

Consequences and Historical Impact

The revelations in §§55-57 set the stage for pivotal events in church history:

• Establishment of Zion: Assignments to leaders like Sidney Gilbert and Edward Partridge facilitated the initial organization and land acquisition necessary for Zion's establishment in Missouri.

• Diverse Congregation Formation: The inaugural worship service in Independence attracted a diverse group, including Native Americans and African Americans, symbolizing the inclusive vision for Zion.

  "A motley crowd, truly," describes the congregation's diversity post-arrival ([50:22] A).

• Psychological and Sociocultural Challenges: The eventual expulsion from Jackson County in the mid-1830s deeply impacted church members, influencing future gatherings and the perpetual tension between expectations and realizations of Zion.

  "The loss of Missouri, the loss of Zion, like, just nagged at him." ([41:11] B)

• Legacy of Leaders: Figures like William Wines Phelps and Ezra Thayer left enduring legacies, both through contributions to church infrastructure and through personal journeys of faith and repentance.

Conclusion

Episode 124 of Church History Matters meticulously unpacks the foundational revelations of D&C 55-57, highlighting the divine direction for Zion's establishment in Missouri and the multifaceted roles of early church leaders. Through engaging discussions and insightful analysis, Scott and Casey illuminate the complexities and enduring significance of these sections, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of why Zion had to start in Missouri and how these revelations continue to influence the Latter-day Saint movement today.

Notable Quotes:

• "My heart was there from the time I became acquainted with the Book of Mormon..." ([00:47] A)
• "Thou art called and chosen..." ([04:07] B)
• "Education is not merely a good idea, it is a commandment." ([10:53] A)
• "Behold, I the Lord command and revoke, as it seemeth me good." ([15:15] B)
• "This is the land of promise and the place for the city of Zion." ([31:39] B)
• "A motley crowd, truly." ([50:22] A)

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from Episode 124, providing a comprehensive overview for those unfamiliar with the podcast.