We must first understand the foundation for the work in the last days a period known as the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times.
 
 

The Dispensation of the fullness of times

Ephesians 1:10, D & C 27:13, 112:30, 121:31, 124:41, 128:18, 138:48

From an article in the 1989, Ensign, December issue, we have an explanation of this period:

"The dispensation of the fullness of times is a period of restoration and of gathering. Peter described the work in terms of a restoration: "And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: "Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began." (Acts 3:20-21.)
Paul called this period of time a dispensation: "Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: "That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him." (Eph. 1:9-10.)
The question is, What was to be restored in this dispensation of the fullness of times? Elder David W. Patten, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, answered that question in July 1838: "The dispensation of the fullness of times is made up of all the dispensations that ever have been given since the world began, until this time ... in the which all things shall be fulfilled that have been spoken of since the earth was made. ...
"Joseph Smith, the leader of this dispensation must be clothed with the power of all other dispensations, or his dispensation could not be called dispensation of the fullness of times. ..." (Robert J. Matthews. The Fullness of Times. Ensign, December 1989:  49)

The dispensation of the fullness of times will bring all things into one.  All that has been shall be. Every mosaic tile will be put into place, every prophecy will be played out during this time frame.  This is a key concept that many overlook, one which I am striving to fully understand.

When did it start?

John P Pratt sets the start time of the Dispensation of the fullness of times as being 3 April 1836. (John P Pratt. Divine Calendars: Astronomical Witnesses of Sacred Events. AstroCal, Sept 2004: page 26)

GROK 9/4/2025 addition: Determining the Start of the Dispensation: John P. Pratt's Perspective and Beyond

The question of precisely when the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times commenced is a topic of thoughtful discussion among Latter-day Saints, as it ties into the gradual restoration of keys, authority, and truths. While the dispensation is broadly associated with the Prophet Joseph Smith's ministry, specific dates have been proposed based on key events. One such view comes from astronomer and researcher John P. Pratt, who pinpointed April 3, 1836, as the starting point in his work Divine Calendars: Astronomical Witnesses of Sacred Events. Let's examine what Pratt contributes to this understanding, with clarity on its insights and cautions for consideration.

John P. Pratt's View: April 3, 1836, as the Opening of the Dispensation

Pratt, drawing from scriptural, historical, and astronomical analysis, argues that the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times fully opened on April 3, 1836—the date of heavenly visitations in the Kirtland Temple (D&C 110). On this day, which coincided with Easter Sunday and the Hebrew date of 16 Nisan (the day after Passover), the Savior appeared first, followed by Moses, Elias, and Elijah, restoring essential priesthood keys:

·         Moses: Keys of the gathering of Israel (D&C 110:11).

·         Elias: Commitment of the dispensation of the gospel of Abraham (D&C 110:12).

·         Elijah: Sealing keys to turn the hearts of fathers and children, fulfilling Malachi 4:5–6 (D&C 110:13–16).

Pratt emphasizes that Elijah's declaration—"The keys of this dispensation are committed into your hands" (D&C 110:16)—signals the commencement. He notes that the dispensation could not be "full" without these final keys, as earlier restorations (e.g., Aaronic Priesthood in 1829, Melchizedek in 1829–1830) were preparatory. By July 1837, the Lord refers to it as "the dispensation of the fulness of times" in D&C 112:30–32, supporting that it was underway post-1836.

What Pratt Adds to Understanding:

·         Astronomical and Calendar Witnesses: Pratt aligns this date with sacred calendars, proposing that April 3, 1836, was a symbolic anniversary of Christ's Resurrection, which he dates to Sunday, April 6, AD 30 (Julian calendar; equivalent alignments in Gregorian). Using astronomy, he shows how the event fell on Passover week, symbolizing fulfillment—the "fulness of time" for the law of Moses (as in Lehi's prophecy: "in the fulness of time he cometh to bring salvation," 2 Nephi 2:3). This adds layers of divine timing, suggesting God uses celestial patterns to witness sacred events (see Psalms 19:1–4 for heavens declaring glory).

·         Symbolic Depth: The restoration on Easter/Passover evokes the Resurrection's "fulness," paralleling the dispensation's role in gathering all things in Christ (Ephesians 1:10). Pratt sees it as closing the "Elias period" (preparatory restorations) and opening the "Elijah period" (full kingdom building), per Joseph Smith's teachings on spirits of Elias, Elijah, and Messiah (History of the Church, 6:254).

·         Clarity on Contribution: This view highlights the dispensation as a culmination, not an instant event, emphasizing 1836 as when all prior dispensations' keys were unified under Joseph Smith, making it the "fullness" (as per Elder David W. Patten's 1838 explanation in your earlier quote).

Cautions and Context:

·         Pratt's work, while published in church magazines like the Ensign (e.g., his 1985 articles on Easter 1836), is independent research and not official doctrine. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not endorse specific astronomical datings or require acceptance of Pratt's conclusions. His proposals involve complex, sometimes inexact evidence from calendars and astronomy, which he acknowledges as interpretive rather than absolute.

·         Readers should approach such studies prayerfully, focusing on scriptural foundations over speculative elements. As Pratt himself notes in his writings, these are "proposed conclusions of serious interest" but not definitive proofs. Always align personal study with official teachings from living prophets.

Exploring Other Views on the Start Date

While Pratt's 1836 date offers a compelling focus on key restorations, other perspectives emphasize earlier milestones in Joseph Smith's ministry. These views underscore the dispensation's gradual unfolding, often without pinpointing a single day. Here's a summary of key alternatives, drawn from official Church sources:

1.      1820: The First Vision as the Commencement Many official teachings link the start to the revelation of the gospel to Joseph Smith in spring 1820. The Bible Dictionary states: "The fulness of times is the final dispensation and began with the revelation of the gospel to Joseph Smith" (Bible Dictionary, "Dispensations," scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). This aligns with the First Vision as the opening of heavens after the Apostasy, initiating restoration (Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20). Elder Bruce R. McConkie echoed this, noting the dispensation began when "the first revelation was given to Joseph Smith" (Mormon Doctrine, p. 204). This view sees 1820 as the dawn, with later events building upon it.

2.      1829: Restoration of Priesthood Authority Some emphasize May 15, 1829, when John the Baptist restored the Aaronic Priesthood (D&C 13), or shortly after when Peter, James, and John restored the Melchizedek Priesthood (D&C 27:12–13). This marks the return of divine authority, essential for the dispensation. The Gospel Topics essay "Restoration of the Priesthood" describes this as part of the "continuing restoration," but not explicitly the start (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

3.      1830: Organization of the Church April 6, 1830, the formal organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (D&C 20–21), is viewed by some as the official launch. This established the institutional foundation for the dispensation's work. The Church History site notes: "The dispensation begun by Joseph Smith is known as the 'dispensation of the fulness of times'" (history.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

4.      Gradual Unfolding Without a Fixed Date Official manuals often describe the dispensation holistically as Joseph Smith's era, without a rigid start. For example, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith states: "The Prophet Joseph Smith was called of God to... stand at the head of the dispensation of the fulness of times" (Chapter 44). This reflects the incremental nature: "line upon line" (Isaiah 28:10), with events like the Book of Mormon's publication (1830) and temple keys (1836) as milestones.

In summary, Pratt's April 3, 1836, proposal adds rich symbolic and astronomical depth, portraying the dispensation's "fullness" as tied to complete key restorations. However, broader views favor 1820 or a progressive timeline, aligning with the Church's emphasis on the overall restoration process. As we study these, remember the core purpose: this dispensation gathers all things in Christ, preparing for His Second Coming (D&C 27:13). Personal revelation through the Holy Ghost guides our understanding (Moroni 10:5).  <<< end GROK 9/4/2025 addition >>>>>

Most of the prophecies dealing with events beyond the old and new testament times happen during the dispensation of the fullness of times, however one key event preceded it and that is the universal apostasy of the church. (Some may be asking; "What about all that has been shall be?"  In a spiritual filled priesthood lesson, Teachings of Presidents of the Church, Joseph Smith, lesson 27, Beware the Bitter Fruits of Apostasy: The lesson quoted Orson Hyde:

"Joseph the prophet....said, 'Brethren, remember that the majority of this people will never go astray; and as long as you keep with the majority you are sure to enter the celestial kingdom.'": Orson Hyde,Deseret News: semi-weekly, June 21 1870, P 3. )

I came to believe that the Apostacy, like the birth of Christ, is a one time event and will not be repeated, however the overall message from Isaiah leads to this update (7/20/2025):

Clarifying the Apostasy and Isaiah’s Warnings

While Isaiah’s prophecies suggest recurring patterns of wickedness ("all that has been shall be," Ecclesiastes 1:9), the Great Apostasy was a unique event, as the priesthood authority will "never be taken again from the earth" (D&C 13:1). The Lord has promised that the Church in this dispensation will endure, as affirmed by Joseph Smith through Orson Hyde: "The majority of this people will never go astray" (Deseret News, June 21, 1870, p. 3). However, individuals must remain vigilant, as Elder Neal A. Maxwell warned: "We must hold fast to the iron rod and not be deceived by the mists of darkness" (General Conference, October 1984). By studying the prophecies holistically, we can avoid personal apostasy and be among the wise who understand (Daniel 12:10).

 

Universal Apostasy:

Isa 24:4-6, 29:13-24, 60:2-3, Amos 8:11-12, Matt 13:24-30, Acts 20:29-30, II Thes. 2: 1-12.,

 

Each piece of the mosaic is made up of individual events, each piece having its own unique shape color and interface(s).  Just like a complex puzzle many pieces will appear to fit in many places, (the interface or sequence may fit into the adjacent pieces) but when the final analysis is done, the overall color or flow will uncover the misplaced piece. Having set the foundation we now arrive at the last dispensation and move into the list of key events (The mosaic pieces):

6TH Seal Event placement replaced by Pre-Wrath View format (8/8/17)

Prior to getting into the PWV format I need to list LDS events that have/could happen prior to those events…..
Restoration work


Let’s start the work by filling in some of the key events that have already taken place. Let’s set the stage by reviewing what happened when Christ lived on the earth.  At the beginning of  that dispensation the Gospel was taken to the Jews, Christ made no effort to take the Gospel to any other peoples. It wasn’t until the Apostle Paul’s ministry that we have the Gospel taken to the gentile nations.  That brings us to this dispensation, the dispensation of the fullness of times, of which the first stage is directed to the gentile nations and begins the Gentile/Restoration period.  let's review the first few events of this period.

Hear the words of the book; 2 Neph 26:16, 2 Neph 27:5-21, Isa 29:17-18

Elijah Returns: Mal 4:5-6, D&C 110:13-16

Keys restored: D&C 13; 27; 128

Gospel restored: Isa 2; 4; 5; 10; 11; 13; 18; 24; 29; 33; 34; 35; 51; 52;54; 60; 63; 64; 65; 66, Rev 14:6-8, D&C 133:36-41, Acts 3:19-21,

Gathering of the remnant of the House of Israel commences: D&C 110:11
 

In my estimation this is where we are in the sequence.  The gathering work has just begun and our journey now begins.  Notice the wording in 3 Nephi 21:26 "then shall the work of the Father commence".  Christ is in the process of preparing this remnant of the House of Israel for the Great and Marvelous work that is to come, the gathering of the House of Israel. The portion of the Great and Marvelous work initiated by Joseph Smith jr. is still in the commencement stage. If you take a close look at the actual gathering of the House of Israel in the Great and Marvelous Work, you will find that it doesn't start until after the Time of the Gentiles has been fulfilled (D&C 45:25) However we do find a remnant of the House of Israel already gathering in with the current missionary effort in preparation for this great work to come.  I don't mean to trivialize all that has been accomplished. I selected the main events that have taken place and listed them above.  There are many prophecies that have been fulfilled that are not included and could have been, but this work is not to focus on what has been or justify the church to others by showing their fulfillment but rather to focus on what is coming.

 

Will the brethren tell the saints where to gather prior to the tribulation events? There has been some speculation recently of this. From a yahoo post by Aaron Tracy: Jan 26 2015 1:01 PM:... D&C Student Manual by Harold B. Lee that says

“… The Lord has placed the responsibility for directing the work of gathering in the hands of the leaders of the Church to whom he will reveal his will where and when such gatherings would take place in the future. It would be well—before the frightening events concerning the fulfilment of all God’s promises and predictions are upon us, that the Saints in every land prepare themselves and look forward to the instruction that shall come to them from the First Presidency of this Church as to where they shall be gathered and not be disturbed in their feelings until such instruction is given to them as it is revealed by the Lord to the proper authority.” (In Conference Report, Apr. 1948, p. 55.)

https://www.lds.org/manual/doctrine-and-covenants-student-manual/sections-21-29/section-29-prepare-against-the-day-of-tribulation?lang=eng


Many Apostate movements have come from people having dreams and visions of these gathering places, like Julie Rowe (Dates have come and gone and deadly movements like the Daybell’s started with Her Books/movement) These seem to be more of what is spelled out in the Flee unto Zion/ The might of Zion shall go forth section of this work, however the Last Days Timeline book by James T. Prout, He limits a gathering out or call out to the timeframe when the New Jerusalem is built up Flee unto Zion section. Statements like the above from Harold B Lee and scriptures such as DC 115:6, 133:12 have us still guessing on when and where the gathering for safety will happen. 

 

Recent statements (2018-2023) from President Nelson “…In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost…" leave me wondering if this will be up to each of us (Oil in our lamps).. Time will tell.

 

At a high level my recent read of 3 Nephi 15-16 left me with these thoughts:

Looking at 3 Nephi 15: 23 “…not that the aGentiles should not at any time hear my voice—that I should not manifest myself unto them save it were by the bHoly Ghost…. “

3 Nephi 16:4-5 “…that through the fulness of the Gentiles, the remnant of their seed, who shall be scattered forth upon the face of the earth because of their cunbelief, may be brought in, or may be brought to a dknowledge of me, their Redeemer.

5 And then will I agather them in from the four quarters of the earth; and then will I fulfil the bcovenant which the Father hath made unto all the people of the chouse of Israel.

…”   When the time of the Gentiles comes to a close then the Great and Marvelous work will kick in

 

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The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times

The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times is a period of restoration and gathering, uniting all gospel dispensations since the world began. As Elder David W. Patten explained in 1838: "The dispensation of the fullness of times is made up of all the dispensations that ever have been given since the world began ... in the which all things shall be fulfilled that have been spoken of since the earth was made" (Ensign, December 1989: 49). This period began with key restoration events starting in 1820, as outlined below.

Scriptural Foundation

  • Ephesians 1:9-10: God’s will to gather all things in Christ in the dispensation of the fullness of times.
  • Acts 3:20-21: A time of restitution of all things spoken by prophets.
  • D&C 27:13, 110:11-16, 112:30, 128:18: Restoration of priesthood keys and the gathering of Israel.
  • 2 Nephi 27:5-21, Isaiah 29:17-18: The coming forth of the Book of Mormon as a sign of restoration.

Key Restoration Events (1820–1960)

The following events, occurring between 1820 and 1960, mark the restoration’s progress in this dispensation, with a start date of April 3, 1836, per John P. Pratt (AstroCal, September 2004: 26).

1.      First Vision (Spring 1820):

    • Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ, initiating the restoration by revealing the apostasy and his prophetic call (Joseph Smith—History 1:15-20).

2.      Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood (May 15, 1829):

    • John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, enabling baptism (D&C 13).

3.      Restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood (May/June 1829):

    • Peter, James, and John restored the Melchizedek Priesthood, granting authority for higher ordinances (D&C 27:12-13).

4.      Publication of the Book of Mormon (March 1830):

    • Translated by Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon emerged as a new witness of Christ, fulfilling Isaiah 29:11-12 (D&C 20:8-11).

5.      Organization of the Church (April 6, 1830):

    • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in Fayette, New York, restoring Christ’s Church (D&C 20, 21).

6.      Publication of the Doctrine and Covenants (1835):

    • A collection of revelations formalized restored doctrine and priesthood instructions (D&C 1:17-23).

7.      Organization of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (1835):

    • The Twelve Apostles were called to lead missionary work and govern the Church (D&C 107:23-24).

8.      Dedication of the Kirtland Temple (March 27, 1836):

    • The first temple of this dispensation was dedicated, with spiritual manifestations (D&C 109).

9.      Restoration of Priesthood Keys (April 3, 1836):

    • In the Kirtland Temple, Moses restored keys for the gathering of Israel, Elias for the Abrahamic covenant, and Elijah for sealing families (D&C 110:11-16, Malachi 4:5-6).

10.  Establishment of the First Presidency (1835–1838):

    • Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and others formed the presiding quorum of the Church (D&C 107:22).

11.  Organization of the Relief Society (March 17, 1842):

    • Emma Smith led the Relief Society, restoring a women’s organization for service and gospel work.

12.  Restoration of Temple Ordinances (1840–1844):

    • Baptism for the dead (1840), the endowment (1842), and sealing ordinances (1843) were introduced in Nauvoo, fulfilling Elijah’s mission (D&C 124:29-39, 128:12-18).

13.  Martyrdom of Joseph Smith (June 27, 1844):

    • Joseph and Hyrum Smith’s deaths sealed the restoration’s foundation (D&C 135).

14.  Nauvoo as a Gathering Place (1839–1846):

    • Nauvoo became a center for the Saints, with temple construction symbolizing Zion (D&C 124:25-28).

15.  Westward Migration and Salt Lake Settlement (1847–1860):

    • Under Brigham Young, the Saints established a new gathering place in Utah, beginning temple construction (Isaiah 2:2-3).

16.  Expansion of Missionary Work (1830–1960):

    • Missions to England (1837), Europe, and the Pacific spread the gospel, commencing the gathering of Israel (D&C 110:11, 133:37).

Context of the Universal Apostasy

The restoration followed a universal apostasy, as prophesied (Isaiah 24:4-6, Amos 8:11-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12). This apostasy, a one-time event, necessitated the restoration to reestablish divine authority and truth.

Current Status

By 1960, the restoration had progressed through these events, laying the foundation for the gathering of Israel and the gospel’s global spread. The “Great and Marvelous Work” continues, with missionary efforts preparing the remnant of the House of Israel (3 Nephi 21:26, D&C 45:25).

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