Bruce R. McConkie taught that there’s no subject more extensively covered in ancient revelations, apart from the Divine mission of our Lord, than the “Great Era of Restoration.” This period represents the time when God would gather all things in one and consummate His glorious work in the latter days.
As we dive deeper into the concept of restoration, it becomes evident that this theme isn’t isolated to a single scripture or a singular prophet’s vision. It spans across various religious texts, from the Old Testament to the New Testament and the Book of Mormon. These scriptures allude to and directly speak of the coming restoration, emphasizing its importance in the grand plan.
The Apostles’ Understanding
Even the apostles who walked with Christ during His mortal ministry understood that the work they were doing was not the culmination of God’s plan. Over time, they realized that another dispensation would follow, which implies an apostasy, a falling away of truth, and the need for full restitution. Their understanding of this future restoration led them to prophesy and testify of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his divine role in starting the next and final dispensation.
The New Testament provides clear evidence of this anticipation.
In Ephesians 1:10, we read that in the dispensation of the fullness of times, God would gather all things in Christ, both in heaven and on earth. The apostles, through their teachings and writings, emphasized that a future restoration was essential.
In Acts Chapter 1, the apostles asked Christ about restoring the kingdom to Israel, to which He responded that the times and seasons were in God’s power. Instead, they were to receive the Holy Ghost, gaining personal revelation and understanding of God’s plan. This exchange between the apostles and Christ showcases their acknowledgment of the forthcoming restoration.
In Acts Chapter 3, it is reiterated that the times of restitution will come from the presence of the Lord. The Apostles knew that Heaven must receive Christ until the times of restitution of all things, a restoration foretold by all God’s holy prophets since the world began.
The Significance of Restoration
The significance of restoration extends beyond the realm of religious doctrine. It has had a profound influence on the entire world. Joseph Smith’s impact on Christianity is undeniable. He brought forth a more profound understanding of eternal families and the plan of salvation, altering the course of Christian thought.
The restoration is an ongoing process, with many aspects already unveiled and others yet to come. The grand narrative of restoration, initiated by Joseph Smith, continues to reshape and enrich our understanding of God’s plan. As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we can’t help but be inspired by the fact that we are living in the midst of this great era of restoration, where truth and light continue to flourish. The legacy of Joseph Smith and the restoration he ushered in remind us that the restoration is not just a historical event but an ongoing source of hope and spiritual growth.