Throughout Western history, Christians have yearned for a new heaven and earth. John the Revelator’s vision of the “holy city, new Jerusalem” has inspired many, raising questions about its meaning. Was it merely a metaphor for eternal life, as St. Augustine suggested, or a literal city, as the 17th-century Puritans believed?
In the early days of the restored Church of Jesus Christ, Latter-day Saints envisioned the New Jerusalem as a tangible city to be built by the Saints, a refuge known as Zion. Two key questions arose: where would it be built, and who would inhabit it?
In August 1830, a revelation directed Joseph Smith’s followers to preach among the Lamanites, indicating that the city would be established among them.
After preaching in Ohio, Joseph Smith received a revelation in 1831, commanding him to travel to Missouri, which was identified as the sacred land for Zion. Upon arrival, he learned that the city was to be built near the Missouri River, historically occupied by the Osage tribe. The land had a complex history, with the Osage being prominent residents before being forced westward due to European expansion.
As white settlers moved into Missouri, they often disregarded the existing Native American presence, leading to the removal of tribes from their lands. Despite this, Joseph Smith’s revelations emphasized the need for Zion to be built among diverse peoples, recognizing both Jews and Gentiles as integral to God’s plan. This inclusive approach contrasted sharply with the prevailing attitudes of the time.
In later revelations, Joseph Smith expanded this vision, describing Zion as a place for “all nations,” inviting everyone, regardless of social or economic status, to share in God’s sacred space.
Though the Saints faced persecution and had to flee Jackson County, the aspiration for Zion continued, influencing their settlements in Nauvoo and the Great Basin. The hope for a society where “all nations” can live in peace endures among Latter-day Saints today.
How my upcoming novels tie into this vision, The Covenant Fire and the 5-part series, America’s Great Perfect Storm.
This vision of Missouri as sacred ground echoes the themes in my two upcoming books—how America’s covenants call us to build inclusively, even in divided times. Can you share your own stories of “Zion-building”?
In Covenant Fire, I explore how revelations like those in 1831 turned abstract promises into fiery calls to build—much like this reminds us of Zion’s enduring flame.” Historical visions fuel modern covenant-keeping.
Shirley
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