The study of the gathering of Israel has intrigued me for some time.  It has been interesting to note that over the last 25 to 30 years there has not been a lot said on the topic.  This is interesting, especially when during general conference there is at least 1 to 2 talks on gospel topics that could be linked to the articles of faith, but not the tenth article of faith.  It is a little frustrating that if it is mentioned the basic message is that members of the church are to gather to there stakes and that the gathering is within our own countries.  I believe that at this time that this is true, and that there are many phases to the gathering that are not being addressed at all by anyone. 

One of the major reasons for my interest in the topic is wondering what my role in the gathering will be.  My Patriarch revealed that I am not of the house of Ephraim or Mannesseh, but of the house of Naphtali.  There is a great deal of confusion by people when they find out about this.  A lot of people think that I will be adopted into the house of Ephraim.  Now why would I need to be adopted into the house of Ephraim, when as a member of the tribe of Naphtali I can lay claim to the blessings and covenants of Abraham.  I cannot say that I know now after years of on and off study of the topic, that I know what I am to do with respect to the gathering of Israel. 

So currently I am studying the Book of Mormon to determine what the Lord or his prophets said to the Nephites.  It has been quite an interesting experience, there are two major places that the topic is discussed.  The first is the beginning when Nephi is still alive.  He is from Jerusalem and proud of his heritage, and tries to motivate his posterity with the great promises given to the Patriarchs.  The second is in 3rd Nephi when Christ comes to visit the Nephites.  He extols to them the promises that are made to them and the penalties for disobience. 

One thing that I have noted during my studies is that Christ only directly deals with is the house of Israel.  In his mortal ministry he ministered to the Israelites, and then sent his disciples to teach the Gentiles, and then he talks to the Nephites and then he leaves to go to his other sheep.  It makes me wonder that during the millenium if He will only speak to the house of Israel, and that the rest of the world will have to get instruction from them.

My hope is to review weekly the things I have studied, and then share them here.  As well intermittently share some thoughts on other topics both gospel and secular.

Tags: Gathering Israel Naphtali

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