This statement by the Savior is one of the most significant statements in all scripture concerning the gathering of Israel in the last days. It is of particular significance because (1) it is given by the resurrected Jesus Christ himself, (2) he clearly indicates that these aspects of the gathering are to take place in the last days, and (3) the gathering of Israel includes much more than the gathering of the Jewish people to the land of Israel.
Elder LeGrand Richards has pointed out the major concepts that are included in these brief verses:
In considering the above declaration, it should be remembered that the Book of Mormon was published and given to the world in 1830, the year the Church was organized, when Joseph Smith was only twenty-four years old. And yet this statement covers all the essential points with respect to the gathering of latter-day Israel, to wit:1. That the New Jerusalem would be established in the land of America.
2. That the church of Jesus Christ would be established in the land of America.
3. That the church would be established among the gentiles. . . .
4. That at the time that his church would be established among the gentiles in America, it would be a sign that the time had arrived, "That I shall gather in, from their long dispersion, my people, O house of Israel, and shall establish again among them my Zion." (3 Nephi 21:1.)
5. That the accomplishment of these things shall precede the second coming of the Christ: "And I also will be in the midst." (3 Nephi 21:25.)
6. That at that time, the Lord would set his hand to gather his people from among all nations: "Yea, and then shall the work commence, with the Father, among all nations, in preparing the way whereby his people may be gathered home to the land of their inheritance." (3 Nephi 21:28.)
7. These declarations of the Savior confirm the statements of the prophets already referred to, to the effect that Israel would be sifted among all nations. (A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, p. 207.)