Prophecy is a cornerstone of faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, bridging the ancient and the modern with profound insights that resonate through time. While Joseph Smith laid the foundation with pivotal prophecies, his successors—prophets like Brigham Young and modern-day leaders—have also made prophetic declarations that continue to unfold. Here, we explore how these inspired visions have shaped our understanding of the past, present, and future, and how many of these prophecies remain strikingly relevant today.
Brigham Young and the Exodus to the West
Brigham Young, Joseph Smith’s successor, is often called the "American Moses" for his role in leading the Latter-day Saint pioneers to the Rocky Mountains. Before his death, Joseph Smith prophesied that the Saints would gather in the Rocky Mountains and “become a mighty people.” Brigham Young fulfilled and expanded upon this vision, declaring in 1847 upon reaching the Salt Lake Valley, “This is the right place.”
What followed was nothing short of miraculous. Through hard work, faith, and community effort, the pioneers transformed a barren desert into a flourishing society, fulfilling prophecies that the land would "blossom as the rose" (Isaiah 35:1). Today, Utah stands as a testament to their faith and resilience, a thriving hub of agriculture, commerce, and religious devotion. From hosting the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir to serving as a home base for humanitarian aid, this once-isolated territory has become a symbol of faith in action.
The Word Shall Go Forth
Joseph Smith declared that the Book of Mormon would “go forth unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.” Initially, this vision might have seemed impossible, given the limitations of 19th-century technology and communication. Yet, successive prophets and modern advancements have made this prophecy a reality.
In 1975, Spencer W. Kimball emphasized the importance of spreading the gospel worldwide, urging members to "lengthen [their] stride." Fast forward to today, and the Book of Mormon has been translated into over 115 languages and is available in digital formats, fulfilling this prophecy in unprecedented ways. Latter-day Saints can now share scriptures through apps, social media, and other tools, bringing spiritual nourishment to even the most remote corners of the globe.
Wilford Woodruff and the Manifesto
Wilford Woodruff, the fourth prophet of the Church, is remembered for his role in ending the practice of plural marriage, as outlined in the 1890 Manifesto. Less known, however, is the prophetic wisdom behind his decision. Facing increasing legal pressure and the potential loss of Church property, President Woodruff declared that he had sought divine guidance and received revelation to discontinue the practice.
Looking back, this decision preserved the Church during a critical moment in history and paved the way for its growth and integration into broader society. His prophecy about the consequences of not issuing the Manifesto—stating that it would result in the destruction of temples and the cessation of ordinances—demonstrates the prophetic foresight that has guided the Church through tumultuous times.
Modern-Day Prophets and the Gathering of Israel
President Russell M. Nelson, the current prophet, has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the gathering of Israel in preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. He has called this the most significant work happening on Earth today and has invited members to play an active role in it through temple work, missionary efforts, and personal righteousness.
The proliferation of temples worldwide reflects this prophecy in action. Since President Nelson became prophet in 2018, he has announced the construction of nearly 150 new temples, bringing the total to over 300. These sacred spaces allow members to perform ordinances for themselves and their ancestors, uniting families across generations and fulfilling prophecies about the gathering of Israel on both sides of the veil.
The Proclamation on the Family
In 1995, the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles issued The Family: A Proclamation to the World, a declaration that outlined the divine nature of the family and warned of societal changes that could threaten this sacred institution. At the time, it was seen by some as a reiteration of existing beliefs. However, nearly three decades later, the prophetic nature of this document has become increasingly apparent as debates about the definition of marriage, gender, and family roles dominate public discourse.
Modern prophets have consistently affirmed the principles outlined in the Proclamation, emphasizing that strong families are central to God's plan for His children. As society continues to grapple with these issues, the Proclamation serves as a guidepost for those seeking clarity and stability amid cultural shifts.
The Second Coming and Signs of the Times
Prophecies about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ have been a consistent theme in the teachings of modern prophets. While specific timelines remain unknown, prophets have pointed to "signs of the times" as indicators of His imminent return. Natural disasters, wars, and the moral decay of societies have been referenced in both scripture and prophetic teachings as precursors to this pivotal event.
President Nelson has encouraged members to focus not on fear but on preparation, emphasizing the need to strengthen faith, build strong families, and fortify spiritual foundations. His message aligns with the Savior’s admonition to “be not troubled” (Matthew 24:6) and serves as a reminder that prophecy is not meant to induce panic but to inspire hope and readiness.
A World United in Faith and Service
Prophets have also foretold that the gospel will unite people from all nations, races, and backgrounds. This vision is increasingly realized through the Church's humanitarian efforts, which provide relief to millions worldwide regardless of religious affiliation. From disaster response to education initiatives, these efforts embody the prophetic call to "love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matthew 22:39).
Recent initiatives, such as Light the World, have further emphasized this global unity. These programs encourage individuals to serve their communities in small, meaningful ways, demonstrating that prophecy is not just about grand, earth-shaking events but also about fostering Christlike love in everyday life.
Conclusion: Prophecies Fulfilled and Unfolding
The prophecies of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and modern prophets illustrate the continuity of divine guidance throughout history. These inspired declarations remind us that God's hand is ever-present, shaping events in ways that might not always be immediately apparent but become clear over time.
In a world often defined by uncertainty, the fulfillment of prophecy offers a steady anchor of faith and hope. As we look to the future, these prophecies challenge us not only to prepare for what lies ahead but to actively participate in the unfolding of God’s eternal plan. And while the journey may be unpredictable, one thing is certain: the best chapters are still to come.
