"Seek to Bring Forth Zion": Understanding Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 and Its Call to Unity and Faith

 

"Seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion." These words from Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 weren’t just instructions for Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery—they’re a timeless call to action for all who strive to follow Christ. For Latter-day Saints, Zion isn’t just a place; it’s a people united in faith, obedience, and love. This scripture reminds us that building the Lord's kingdom requires effort, sacrifice, and a focus on spiritual growth over worldly pursuits. With every act of service and devotion, we move closer to creating a community that mirrors the pure heart of Zion.

Understanding the Cause of Zion

The idea of Zion is central to understanding the plan of God as revealed in scripture. It represents more than just a geographical location—Zion is a concept tied to faith, obedience, and the unity of God's people. By exploring Zion through the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants, we uncover its profound spiritual meaning and its role in the Restoration.

Zion in Biblical Texts

In both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, Zion is often referred to as a holy city, the dwelling place of God, and a symbol of His covenant with His people. For example, Isaiah envisioned Zion as a place of peace and spiritual renewal: "And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths" (Isaiah 2:3). It was not only a physical location but a promise of spiritual gathering and divine enlightenment for all nations.

King David made Zion significant within Jewish history when he captured Jerusalem and established it as the center of worship and governmental authority. Often referred to as the "City of David" (2 Samuel 5:7), Zion became a spiritual and political stronghold. In Psalms, David spoke poetically of Zion as a symbol of God's protection and covenant, saying, "For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation" (Psalm 132:13). To David and Isaiah, Zion represented much more than a city—it was the heart of God's relationship with His people.

Zion in the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon expands on the vision of Zion, offering compelling insights about its role in God’s eternal plan. In 3 Nephi 20:22, Jesus Christ promises the establishment of a New Jerusalem: "And behold, this people will I establish in this land, unto the fulfilling of the covenant which I made with your father Jacob; and it shall be a New Jerusalem." Here, Zion isn’t just symbolic; it’s a literal promise of a future city where God's people will gather in righteousness.

Ether 13 further illustrates this prophecy, describing a city prepared before the flood of Noah, named Zion, and its ties to the modern covenant people. Ether foresees the return of this city, which "shall come down out of heaven," and how its establishment will unify the righteous generations of the past with the present (Ether 13:3-6). The Book of Mormon emphasizes that Zion is not just a place of physical gathering but also a pattern for living—a standard of holiness, consecration, and obedience.

Zion in the Restoration Era

With the Restoration of the Gospel through Joseph Smith, the idea of Zion took on an even greater importance. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith that the early Saints were to establish Zion in Independence, Missouri. Doctrine and Covenants 58:7 proclaims, "The Lord of the vineyard will labor with his servants...that every man may be rewarded according to his own diligence." In this context, Zion is both a physical place to be built and a spiritual goal requiring great faith and sacrifice.

The early Saints faced persecution and trials in their efforts to establish Zion, but the revelations consistently reminded them of the ultimate blessing of their labor. Section 58 set the groundwork for the development of Zion by outlining principles of obedience, stewardship, and unity. It called for strategic land purchases and emphasized collective service through the law of consecration.

Although the Saints were driven out of Missouri, the vision for Zion persisted. It became clear that Zion was not bound by one location but was to be built wherever the faithful gathered to live the gospel fully. The effort to "bring forth and establish the cause of Zion" involves personal sanctification, aligning with God's will, and creating communities devoted to holiness and love.

By exploring these different scriptural perspectives, we see how Zion weaves through the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Restoration. It’s a shining symbol of God’s promises: unity, protection, and ultimate triumph over the world’s trials as we strive to build His kingdom on earth.

Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 and Its Context

Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 contains the Lord's call for Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to "seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion." This verse not only highlights a specific command but also represents a timeless principle for all striving to build God’s kingdom. Through obedience, spiritual enlightenment, and perseverance during trials, the early Saints laid the foundation for what Zion truly means: a society united in faith, purity, and dedication to heavenly purposes.

Obedience to Commandments

Obedience has always been central to establishing Zion. In the context of Doctrine and Covenants 6:6, the Lord’s instruction to “keep my commandments” is clear obedience isn’t conditional but foundational. For Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, this commandment carried significant implications. They were tasked with the monumental responsibility of translating sacred scripture, coordinating the early Saints, and preparing the way for the church's establishment.

This principle of obedience is mirrored throughout scripture. Christ Himself taught, "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). In striving to build Zion, obedience becomes an act of faith, demonstrating trust in God's plan. It’s like navigating by a compass in uncharted terrain; even if we don’t understand every step, following divine direction leads us closer to our destination.

Early revelations, such as Doctrine and Covenants 58:42, illustrate that through obedience, blessings flow—including forgiveness and guidance. For those early Saints, obedience wasn’t about blind compliance but about aligning their lives with God’s will in service of a greater purpose: building a community where love and righteousness prevailed.

Seeking Divine Wisdom Over Material Riches

Doctrine and Covenants 6:7 follows with an equally profound reminder: "Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you." This counsel directly challenges worldly priorities, urging us to seek eternal truths rather than fleeting material wealth.

The early Saints understood this principle as they sacrificed homes, possessions, and comfort in their efforts to gather and establish Zion. This mirrors Christ’s admonition in Matthew 6:19-21: "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt... For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." The Lord’s vision for Zion—a society built on spiritual wealth—stands in stark contrast to the individualistic pursuit of material gain.

Wisdom, in this context, isn’t just knowledge but divine understanding. It’s the ability to discern God’s will and align your actions accordingly. By prioritizing spiritual enlightenment over earthly wealth, we position ourselves to receive the “mysteries of God”—the deeper truths needed to fulfill Zion’s mission in our lives and communities.

Faith and Endurance Through Trials

Building Zion has never been easy. For the early Saints, including Oliver Cowdery, challenges came in the form of persecution, relocation, and personal doubts. Yet, their endurance through trials became a testament to their faith and commitment to the cause of Zion.

Oliver Cowdery, for example, faced moments of uncertainty about his role and divine calling. The Lord’s reassurance to him in Doctrine and Covenants 6 reminds us that faith often involves stepping into the unknown. The promise, found in verse 36, is comforting: “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” When trials arose, Oliver and other Saints like him found strength in prayer, personal revelation, and the Lord's promises.

The early Saints’ journey to Independence, Missouri—a location revealed as Zion—stands as a powerful example of endurance. Despite being driven out of the area, they remained committed to the principles of Zion, understanding that Zion wasn’t just a place but a condition of the heart. Their faith, even in the face of adversity, paved the way for future generations to carry this vision forward.

Today, we can draw inspiration from their example. Trials, whether personal or collective, often act as refining fires. They test our resolve and reveal the depth of our faith. Just as Zion required sacrifice and perseverance in the Restoration era, it demands the same level of commitment from us: obedience, spiritual focus, and a readiness to endure, no matter the challenge.

By remembering Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 and its surrounding principles, we see that establishing Zion requires more than just effort—it asks for our hearts, minds, and unwavering dedication to the Lord's work. The cause of Zion is not a one-time pursuit but an ongoing journey of faith, unity, and righteousness.

Characteristics of Zion

When we talk about Zion, it’s much more than a physical place. Zion represents a people—a spiritual condition of unity and love—and is the ultimate goal outlined in the teachings of the Doctrine and Covenants. But what defines this Zion? Its characteristics are deeply rooted in scripture, guiding us to be a united, holy, and charitable people.

Unity Among Believers

Moses 7:18 provides one of the clearest descriptions of Zion: "And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them." This scripture paints a picture of divine unity—a community where individuals set aside selfish ambitions and look out for one another.

Unity in Zion isn’t just about getting along; it’s about becoming deeply connected, spiritually and emotionally, with others. Imagine a world where disputes and divisions melt away, replaced by collaboration and genuine care. The Saints of Enoch’s city achieved this, creating a society where every individual worked for the common good. This same principle was commanded in Doctrine and Covenants 38:27, where the Lord asked, "If ye are not one, ye are not mine."

To become a Zion people today, we can start with simple acts of love and understanding. Is there someone you disagree with? Can you find common ground? Just like in Enoch’s Zion, unity begins when we prioritize our shared faith over petty differences. Being “of one heart and one mind” is not about uniformity: it’s about harmony, much like an orchestra of unique instruments playing together in tune.

Holiness and Personal Righteousness

Doctrine and Covenants 97:21 reminds us, "This is Zion—the pure in heart." At its core, Zion isn’t just about collective righteousness; it’s about individuals striving for personal holiness. Each of us is a building block in creating a holy community, and without personal purification, the foundation crumbles.

Being "pure in heart" means more than avoiding sin—it’s learning to align our desires with God’s will. It’s choosing integrity when no one else is watching, and it’s repenting regularly when we fall short. Holiness transforms us and, in turn, strengthens Zion because righteous individuals create a righteous group.

Think about it this way: Zion is like a stained-glass window. Each of us is a piece of glass, colored by our own unique talents and contributions. But the beauty of the window only shines when the light of Christ illuminates it. Set aside distractions, keep your covenant promises, and let your faith shine. In doing so, you not only enhance your own life but help create a community where God Himself can dwell.

Charity as the Defining Trait of Zion

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has described charity as "the pure love of Christ," and he emphasizes it’s the single most transformative trait for a Zion people. Charity is what binds us together, softens our hearts, and allows us to see others as God sees them. Without charity, Zion is impossible.

In his teachings, Elder Holland said, “Let people grow. Let people repent. Believe that people can change and improve.” Charity isn’t just about giving to the poor or being kind in passing; it’s about consistently treating others with grace and patience, even when it’s inconvenient. Zion flourishes wherever selfless love exists.

Look back at the society described in Moses 7:18—they had "no poor among them." This wasn’t just about economic equality; it was about true care. They ensured everyone was physically, emotionally, and spiritually nurtured. We often think of charity as grand gestures, but it can start small: a listening ear, an encouraging word, a helping hand.

Charity can also push us to confront uncomfortable truths, such as the ways we might unintentionally neglect others around us. Are we creating spaces where all feel welcome? Are we lifting those who are burdened with loneliness or pain? Charity compels us to seek out those who are struggling and bring them into the fold—not just through resources but with love and inclusion.

Building Zion is inseparable from these characteristics. Unity, personal righteousness, and charity don’t happen overnight, but every small step brings us closer to the community God wants us to become. As Elder Holland teaches, Zion is a way of living—and it requires each of us to be fully invested in loving God and loving His children.

Practical Applications for Latter-day Saints Today

Living the principle of “seeking to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion” isn’t just about historical events; it’s about real, tangible actions Latter-day Saints can take in their daily lives. Building Zion starts with each of us, and there are practical ways individuals and families can carry forth this important gospel charge.

Missionary Work and Gathering Israel

President Russell M. Nelson has repeatedly emphasized that missionary work is central to gathering Israel—a key step in building Zion. He calls it “the greatest challenge, the greatest cause, and the greatest work on earth.” But this effort isn't just for full-time missionaries; it's a collective mission for all members.

Missionary work today is more dynamic than ever, with opportunities to share the gospel through face-to-face interactions, social media, or simply by living as an example of Christlike behavior. How often do we reflect on how our words and actions could influence someone curious about the Church?

Practical steps include:

• Inviting friends or neighbors to church activities like ward socials or service projects.
• Sharing gospel truths organically during conversations, focusing on hope, family, and Christ.
• Using modern tools like apps, websites, and videos to answer questions or dispel misconceptions.

President Nelson also counsels us to strengthen our own testimonies to make sharing the gospel a natural extension of who we are. When we’re spiritually hydrated, we naturally reach out to others with living water.

Building Zion Within Families

Elder D. Todd Christofferson often teaches that Zion begins in the home. Families serve as the foundation for building a Zion society. Is your home a sanctuary where love, kindness, and gospel living thrive?

To make your family a building block for Zion:

• Set aside time for family scripture study and prayer. Even a few minutes a day fosters unity.
• Find ways to serve together, whether it’s helping a neighbor or doing a Church project. Service bonds individuals in the family and connects you to the greater purpose of Zion.
• Address conflict with charity and understanding. Elder Christofferson reminds us that families take work—and that’s okay! What matters is creating a culture of respect and forgiveness.

A Zion family isn’t perfect, but it’s striving. It seeks to emulate the “pure in heart” culture described in Doctrine and Covenants by grounding itself in Christ-centered love.

Living the Law of Consecration

Zion has always been tied to principles of consecration—aligning resources with divine purposes. Although we don’t live the full law of consecration today, there are practical ways to embrace its spirit through tithing, offerings, and acts of service.

When you pay your tithing or contribute fast offerings, you participate in Zion’s work by helping the Church fund missionary efforts, temples, and humanitarian aid. But consecration also goes beyond financial giving. What about your time, talents, or even unused resources?

Some suggestions:

• Volunteer through JustServe or local wards to support community initiatives, like food drives or disaster relief efforts.
• Evaluate your personal gifts. Whether it’s teaching, cooking, or organizing, consider how they might serve others inside and outside your ward.
• Simplify your lifestyle and focus on giving rather than accumulating. Zion is about sharing and lifting others—not hoarding blessings for ourselves.

By living consecration principles, we remind ourselves that we’re stewards of God’s resources, entrusted to bless His children.

Promoting Unity and Charity in Communities

Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 is a call to unity, and Zion cannot exist without it. “Unity” doesn’t mean everyone thinking the same way—it’s about being “of one heart and one mind,” united in purpose and love. How do we foster this kind of unity in our wards and communities?

Here are some actionable ways:

1. Extend Charity, Even When It’s Hard: Charity—not the kind you write on a check, but the kind that softens hearts—is crucial. Can you think of someone in your ward or workplace struggling with loneliness? Charity means reaching out, even when it’s awkward or inconvenient.
2. Celebrate Diversity: Zion grows stronger when people bring different strengths and perspectives. Make an effort to recognize and appreciate the contributions of others, especially those who might feel unseen.
3. Organize Inclusive Activities: From ward game nights to service projects, creating avenues for friendship and collaboration breaks down barriers and builds trust.

Unity takes consistent effort. It’s about lowering our defenses, letting go of grudges, and building lasting bridges. As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said, “Charity is the ultimate measure of discipleship and the ultimate touchstone in establishing Zion.”

Each of these steps—missionary work, strengthening families, prioritizing consecration, and fostering unity—moves us closer to “establishing the cause of Zion.” This isn’t just an abstract theological idea; it’s a personalized, purposeful effort every Latter-day Saint can take part in today. How will you answer the call?

Challenges in Establishing Zion

Establishing Zion has always been a spiritual and practical struggle, marked by trials that tested the faith and commitment of those who devoted themselves to this divine cause. The lessons from early church history and the modern-day realities we face highlight the complexity of this eternal call. While the challenges differ, the principles required to overcome them—faith, unity, and reliance on divine guidance—remain constant.

Lessons from Early Church History

The early Saints’ attempt to establish Zion in Missouri is a compelling story of faith, sacrifice, and hardship. When the Lord revealed Jackson County, Missouri, as the center place of Zion in 1831, the Saints viewed it with reverent optimism. However, their enthusiasm was soon met with heavy opposition.

• Cultural and Local Tensions: Local citizens feared the rapid influx of Latter-day Saints and perceived them as a threat to the region's economic and political balance. These tensions led to violent mob actions, forcing the Saints to flee from Jackson County by 1833.

• Trials in Zion’s Camp: The subsequent Zion’s Camp expedition, organized under Joseph Smith in 1834, was another pivotal moment. Though intended as a means to reclaim the Saints' land, the 900-mile march faced extreme difficulties, including illness, lack of food, and a cholera outbreak. The mission ultimately disbanded without reaching its goal, leaving many to question its purpose.

The spiritual lessons from these events are profound. Zion’s Camp, for example, became a refining fire for the participants. It prepared future leaders like Brigham Young and others who later helped guide the Church through periods of growth and persecution. The experience taught the Saints about obedience, endurance, and the importance of humility. Establishing Zion required not just physical effort but a spiritual transformation—a principle that echoes through time.

From Missouri to Nauvoo to Salt Lake City, the early Saints demonstrated that Zion isn’t defined by geographic success but by the sanctification of their hearts and actions. Their story serves as a reminder that challenges are not setbacks; they’re opportunities for spiritual refinement and growth.

Overcoming Modern-Day Obstacles

In today’s world, establishing Zion feels less about physical locations and more about building communities rooted in righteousness and love. However, modern challenges, such as a divided society and spiritual distractions, present their own unique difficulties.

Disunity and Division

The call to be “of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18) is harder than ever in a society marked by polarization. Differing political views, economic disparities, and cultural misunderstandings often seep into church communities, threatening unity.

How can we overcome this? By applying gospel principles:

1. Assume Positive Intentions: Instead of jumping to conclusions about others’ motives, approach differences with charity.
2. Focus on Shared Beliefs: Unity doesn’t demand uniformity; it asks us to center on Christ and His gospel.
3. Seek Christlike Communication: Instead of contentious debates, foster conversations that build understanding.

Spiritual Distractions

In a world of noise and endless distractions, focusing on spiritual priorities can feel overwhelming. Social media, consumerism, and worldly ambitions often pull us away from the pure ideals of Zion—unity, charity, and consecration.

To combat these distractions:

• Set Boundaries with Technology: Reserve time for reflection, scripture study, and family without digital interference.
• Seek Spiritual Nourishment: Regular temple worship and daily prayer keep our focus on eternal goals.
• Prioritize Service: Engaging in selfless acts draws us closer to Zion’s ideals and away from materialism.

Losing Vision of Zion

Sometimes the biggest obstacle is simply forgetting the vision. When we treat church membership as a routine rather than a mission, the drive to establish Zion fades. Doctrine and Covenants 6:7 reminds us to “seek not for riches but for wisdom.” This wisdom lies in re-centering our lives on building God’s kingdom.

Rekindling the vision means asking ourselves:

• Are my actions helping build a community of love and faith?
• Am I contributing to unity at home, at church, and in my workplace?

Faith in Christ, paired with deliberate actions, allows us to rise above modern challenges to build Zion. Just like the Saints of old, our willingness to overcome division, distractions, and doubt defines our success. Establishing Zion starts with us—one step, one act of obedience, one unified heart at a time.

Conclusion

Doctrine and Covenants 6:6 invites us to actively participate in the work of building Zion—a call that resonates deeply in both personal and communal discipleship. Establishing Zion is not about waiting for a perfect time or place; it’s about making deliberate choices today to align our lives with the Savior’s teachings.

Unity, faith, and humble obedience are the bedrock of this divine effort. Whether through acts of charity, strengthening our families, or contributing to our communities, each faithful step we take helps bring the vision of Zion closer to reality.

The cause of Zion asks each of us to reflect: how do my choices, actions, and priorities contribute to creating a loving, Christ-centered community? Building Zion is a sacred, ongoing effort that requires our hearts, resolve, and a willingness to seek the Lord’s guidance every day. Let’s answer that call with courage, faith, and a determination to make a difference right where we stand.