If you were to ask a group of a dozen missionaries what the purpose of the Restoration is/was, you would likely get a dozen answers. Maybe even more! I realized this when I thought long and hard about how I taught the First Discussion from "Preach My Gospel". If you don't know, the First Discussion centered on the need for a Restoration. But as I have reviewed it, "Preach My Gospel" is not as clear as one might think on the purpose.God is our Loving Heavenly Father, he Reveals Truth in Every Dispensation, etc... are all part of it, but in all actuality, "Preach My Gospel" does not spell it out. I do not believe this is a bad thing nor do I think it was a mistake. In fact, I think it is brilliant! The purpose of the Restoration is "Preach My Gospel" and other missionary programs.
Some consider the Restoration too often as an event. Maybe then the only so-called "problem" with "Preach My Gospel" language is that it can somewhat justify the idea that the Restoration happened when in reality, it is happening.
If one does not see how the Restoration is still occurring, go back to this last General Conference and reflect on the magnitude of President Monson's talk. In fact, go back to all the conferences since he has been sustained. Temples are announced, missionary work is promoted, and our push to gather in the Lord's elect is constantly on the forefront of their mind.
The Restoration started with the first vision of Joseph Smith but the mission was not fully realized until 6 years after the Church was established. On April 3rd, 1836, when the keys to the gathering of Israel were restored, the mission of this Church finally was comprehended. It was vital that these keys be restored in order for Abraham's Covenant to be fully realized.
So then what? Well the 1950s came around and Stakes started to spread overseas--no longer was the gathering spot in the mountains of Utah: it was in Temples that were and would be dotting the earth.
President Hinckley made an oft quoted, interesting remark. What we quote, however, is not the most compelling part of his talk:
"Now,
my brethren and sisters, the time has come for us to stand a little
taller, to lift our eyes and
stretch our minds to a greater
comprehension and understanding of the grand millennial mission of this
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is a
season to be
strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation, knowing well
the meaning, the breadth, and the importance of our mission."
This Church is not complete until the Millennial reign! The Restoration has yet to be complete; in fact, the Restoration of the Church will not be complete until we are personally ready for the Restoration of ourselves; the Resurrection.
So what is the purpose of the Restoration? To gather Israel who has not been scattered for over 2,700 years. As you read the Doctrine and Covenants, the Book of Mormon and the teachings of the Brethren, you will begin to see the gathering of Israel come as a clear picture and the obvious mission of the Church. And thankfully, we can actually participate in it.
