Great and Marvelous Work

This page examines the Great and Marvelous Work (GMW) as outlined in 3 Nephi 21, D&C 133, and related scriptures, focusing on the restoration of the House of Israel and its role in the latter days. It complements the Pre-Wrath timeline in PP_Wrath.htm, where the GMW’s connection to the Day of Wrath (1 Nephi 14:17) is noted but uncertain, possibly spanning the tribulation or culminating post-sixth seal (Revelation 6:12-17). This analysis preserves the scriptural sequence and insights from Michael Rush and Eddie Chumney, aligning with LDS eschatology. Key scriptures include 3 Nephi 21:1-29, 1 Nephi 14:7, 14:17, D&C 133:26-34, and Isaiah 11:11-12.

Purpose of the Great and Marvelous Work The GMW is a divine initiative to gather the House of Israel, restore the gospel, and prepare for the Second Coming, convincing all people of truth or hardening their hearts (1 Nephi 14:7).

· 3 Nephi 21:7-9: The work begins with the Book of Mormon, signaling the gathering of Israel and the Lord’s covenant fulfillment.

· Bruce R. McConkie: The GMW encompasses the restoration, missionary work, and establishment of Zion (Mormon Doctrine, p. 337).

· Joseph Smith: Includes rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple, with water flowing from under the temple to heal the Dead Sea (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 286; Ezekiel 47:8-9).

Sequence of Events (3 Nephi 21) 3 Nephi 21 outlines the GMW’s progression, leading to the Lord’s appearance and the Millennium.

· Sign Given (21:1-7): The Book of Mormon’s emergence signals the GMW, with Gentiles receiving the gospel first (1 Nephi 14:7).

· Gospel to Gentiles and Israel (21:6-11): Some Gentiles accept the gospel, becoming numbered with Israel; others reject it, facing destruction (D&C 45:28-30).

· Father’s Work Commences (21:7-9): The Lord’s work begins, involving the remnant of Jacob (Lamanites) and the gathering of Israel (Isaiah 11:11-12).

· Greater Exodus (21:22-25): A new exodus, surpassing the Mosaic one, gathers the elect to Zion and Jerusalem (D&C 133:26-34; Jeremiah 16:14-15).

o Michael Rush: Suggests a literal exodus led by the Davidic Servant, with divine signs like a cloud by day (The Coming of the Lord, p. 123).

o Eddie Chumney: Proposes the Sign of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:30) involves a visible pillar of fire, seen globally (YouTube, 7/1/22; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wg21MYS2m1E).

· Lord’s Appearance (21:25-29): Christ appears, establishing His kingdom; the work continues into the Millennium (D&C 45:59).

Relation to the Day of Wrath 1 Nephi 14:17 links the GMW to the Day of Wrath, when God’s wrath destroys the great and abominable church.

· Pre-Wrath Timing: The GMW likely intensifies post-sixth seal (Revelation 6:12-17; PP_Wrath.htm) with the Day of Wrath, as the wicked are burned (D&C 101:24-25) and the righteous are gathered (D&C 88:96).

· Alternative View: May begin during tribulation, as missionary work expands to gather the elect before the Rapture (Matthew 24:14, 24:31).

· D&C 95:4 and Isaiah 28:21: The GMW is God’s “strange act,” hastening His work, possibly spanning tribulation and culminating in the Day of Wrath.

Key Components

· Book of Mormon: Initiates the GMW, restoring gospel truths (3 Nephi 21:9-10; 1 Nephi 13:39).

· Gathering of Israel: Judah returns to Jerusalem, the Ten Tribes from the north, and Lamanites join the covenant (D&C 133:26-34; 3 Nephi 21:22-24).

· Destruction of the Wicked: The great and abominable church is bound (D&C 88:94; 1 Nephi 14:17; McConkie, Millennial Messiah, p. 635).

· Zion and New Jerusalem: Established as refuges for the righteous (D&C 45:66-71; 3 Nephi 21:23-25).

Terrestrial Kingdom Role Terrestrial beings (honest, upright; D&C 76:71-79) abide the day (D&C 63:20-21) and are resurrected later for the Millennium (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:295-97). They may assist in missionary work during the Millennium, supporting the GMW’s ongoing efforts (McConkie, DNTC, 1:669).

Speculative Connections

· Celestial Signs: The GMW may align with signs like the Four Angels (Revelation 7:1; PP_Wrath.htm) or the 2024 Apophis asteroid (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm51luThkZI&t=2909s), pending prophetic confirmation.

· Davidic Servant: May lead the Greater Exodus, as suggested by Rush, tying to Isaiah 11:11-12 and 3 Nephi 21:22.

Conclusion The Great and Marvelous Work restores the House of Israel, gathers the elect, and prepares for the Second Coming, likely intensifying with the Day of Wrath (1 Nephi 14:17) but possibly beginning during tribulation. It aligns with the Pre-Wrath timeline (PP_Wrath.htm), emphasizing the Book of Mormon, Greater Exodus, and Zion’s establishment. Monitor prophetic guidance for timing and signs (e.g., Apophis 2029/2036). Note: This page clarifies the GMW’s role, complementing PP_Wrath.htm’s Pre-Wrath perspective and resolving its ambiguous placement in the Day of the Lord.