The LDS Church affirms the literal, bodily return of Jesus Christ to earth. Unique to LDS eschatology is the belief that the New Jerusalem (Zion) will be built in Jackson County, Missouri, and that Christ will reign from both the New Jerusalem in America and the ancient Jerusalem in Israel. The return of Christ will be preceded by specific signs, tribulations, and the gathering of Israel.

LDS teaching gives significant attention to the gathering of Israel, the building of Zion, and preparing the earth for Christ's millennial reign. The church understands its global missionary work as part of the preparatory gathering. The LDS dispensationalist framework, shaped by Joseph Smith's revelations, gives detailed content to the sequence of events before and during Christ's return.