Three Principles for Building a Zion-like Society

Russell Anderson

Jun 22, 2023

Subscribe now

In today's world of confusion, conflict, wanton destruction, and mean-spirited interpersonal relations, it may seem as though a Zion-like society is beyond our reach.

The answer depends on how you define the breadth and depth of your society.

Sure, it would be awesome if all the world was included and living in a Zion-like manner.

But that is not realistic today. Perhaps someday, but not today.

At the April 1, 1978, Welfare General Conference Session of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Church President Spencer W. Kimball offered a roadmap for building a Zion-like society, a community characterized by unity, love, and mutual support.

So, what should we aim for in our Zion-like relationships? What is the secret sauce?

Building a Zion-like Society

President Kimball offered three fundamental principles to building a Zion-like society: Self-reliance, service, and sacrifice.

The three elements are independent principles but are interdependent when it comes to a healthy society.

1. Self-Reliance: A Cornerstone of Personal Growth and Community Building

The first principle Kimball emphasizes is self-reliance. He reminded Church members of their responsibility to provide for themselves and their families.

This principle is not just about financial independence; it's about spiritual and emotional resilience as well.

Self-reliance fosters a sense of dignity and independence, which is essential for personal growth and community building.

President Kimball warned against shifting the responsibility for the poor and needy to governmental or other public agencies in an effort to avoid the "philosophy of the dole."

Instead, he advocates for a system where everyone who receives assistance contributes something in return. This approach ensures that the spiritual roots of any welfare assistance remain strong and vibrant, with human worth and self-image remaining intact.

2. Service: The Path to Maintaining Dignity and Independence

Work and service are crucial for maintaining dignity and independence.

Everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can contribute something of value.

And it is vital to make sure everyone has the opportunity to serve within individual means and circumstances.

This belief aligns with the Church's emphasis on personal and family preparedness. By encouraging members to be proactive and resourceful, the Church fosters a community where everyone has a role, and everyone's contributions are valued.

3. Sacrifice: The Key to Personal Transformation and Community Cohesion

The third principle President Kimball highlights is sacrifice.

Sacrifice directly relates to service.

But in this context, service is not about deprivation or suffering.

Instead, it's about willingly giving of oneself for the benefit of others. It's about putting the needs of the community before personal desires.

This kind of sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven and leads to personal transformation and community cohesion.

We are encouraged to give our best effort in our assigned fields of labor and callings. Also, to consecrate our time, talents, and means as prompted by the Spirit.

We can create smaller refuges of emotional peace and personal safety.

Though given almost 50 years ago, President Kimball's direction is as valid today as it was then.

By focusing on groups wherein we share common principles and values, we can achieve a Zion society in small increments. Perhaps like these:

Among you and your circle of friends
At home with your family
With neighbors and friends you know, like, and trust
Within your church congregation
At work and school
Even in public and professional settings such as boards of directors, trustees, and committees, you serve on

Ultimately those tiny groups will start to merge into larger communities.

It's up to us.

Building a Zion-like society is a challenging task.

It requires a commitment to the principles of self-reliance, service, and sacrifice.

It requires all of us to look beyond our own needs and consider the needs of others in our hand-picked community.

It requires a willingness to give of oneself without expecting anything in return.

As President Kimball encouraged, "The vision of what we are about and what should come of our labors must be kept uppermost in our minds."

Parting Thoughts

In a world that often values individual achievement over community well-being, we need to remember we are all interconnected and that our actions profoundly impact those around us.

By embracing the principles of self-reliance, service, and sacrifice, we can build a latter-day Zion-like society.

A community characterized by love, harmony, and peace.

Built brick by brick.

Relationship by relationship.

In the end, building a Zion-like community is up to us.

Thanks for reading and pondering with me!