“When the World Will Be Converted”–Address to Regional Representatives

Elder Spencer W. Kimball

Ensign, Oct. 1974, p. 2.

“May I now discuss with you some of the things which have been uppermost in my mind… After his crucifixion the eleven apostles assembled on a mountain in Galilee and the Savior came to them and said:…

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,…” 

(He said “all nations.”)

“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:19-20). These words from the lips of the Master know no national boundaries; they are not limited to any race or culture. One nation is not favored above another. The admonition is clear—“teach all nations.”

“…These were his last words on earth before he went to his heavenly home….did he mean all the living people of all the world and those spirits assigned to this world to come in centuries ahead? Have we underestimated his language or its meaning? 

“…I am constrained to believe that at that time the Lord knew the bounds of the habitations of man and the areas that would be settled and already knew his people who would possess this world….

I believe it was John Taylor who said, “God will hold us responsible to the people we might have saved, had we done our duty.”

…Our objective is not for power or domain, but totally spiritual. And to every nation and people which opens its borders to the gospel will come unbelievable blessings.

…In all the countries I have ever visited I have found many intelligent and qualified people who give leadership in their countries, and I also remember numerous people from deprived countries enjoying benefits from the gospel.

…It seems to me that the Lord chose his words when he said “every nation,” “every land,” “uttermost bounds of the earth,” “every tongue,” “every people,” “every soul,” “all the world,” “many lands.” Surely there is significance in these words!

Certainly his sheep were not limited to the thousands about him and with whom he rubbed shoulders each day. A universal family! A universal command!

My brethren, I wonder if we are doing all we can. Are we complacent in our approach to teaching all the world?