What does it mean to gather Israel today?
To understand covenant Israel, we look at Abraham, a 10th-generation descendant of Noah through his son Shem (see Gen. 11:10–26). He was born and spent his early life in Ur. Abraham informs us that his own father and some others of his family were idolaters and consented to have him sacrificed to one of the pagan deities they worshiped. Abraham, who was aware of the true gospel as practiced by his forebears, prayed for deliverance. Through divine intervention, his life was saved. The Lord spoke to him and taught him of a mission he was to perform. In performing this mission, Abraham would be led to another land; priesthood would be conferred upon him; and through his ministry the Lord’s name would be known in the earth forever (see Abr. 1:15–19). Subsequent revelations gave him further understanding of his mission and the Lord’s covenant with him. In brief, the covenant promises Abraham the following blessings if he is faithful: 1. Both his literal posterity and all those who accept th
