D&C 138

Pondering the visit of the Savior to the spirits of men in the spirit world where Peter had taught -

"By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison..."  (New Testament | 1 Peter 3:19)

...Joseph F. Smith wondered -

"...how it was possible for him to preach to those spirits and perform the necessary labor among them in so short a time."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 138:28)

Being touched by the Spirit -

"...my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them;
30 But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.
31 And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 138:29 - 31)

Thus -

"I beheld that the faithful elders of this dispensation, when they depart from mortal life, continue their labors in the preaching of the gospel of repentance and redemption, through the sacrifice of the Only Begotten Son of God, among those who are in darkness and under the bondage of sin in the great world of the spirits of the dead.
58 The dead who repent will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 138:57 - 58)

As Joseph F. Smith saw the prophets and faithful saints that had previoulsy passed on, he noticed that  -

"...the dead had looked upon the long absence of their spirits from their bodies as a bondage."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 138:50)

Obvioulsy having a body of flesh and bones brought great happiness and joy.  And then he learned that -

"These the Lord taught, and gave them power to come forth, after his resurrection from the dead, to enter into his Father's kingdom, there to be crowned with immortality and eternal life,
52 And continue thenceforth their labor as had been promised by the Lord, and be partakers of all blessings which were held in reserve for them that love him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 138:51 - 52)

Contrary to the false doctrine that heaven is laying around and playing harps, we learn that they "continue thenceforth their labor as had been promised by the Lord".  The Prophet Joseph Smith taught -

“When you climb up a ladder, you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step by step, until you arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the Gospel—you must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles of exaltation. But it will be a great while after you have passed through the veil before you will have learned them. It is not all to be comprehended in this world; it will be a great work to learn our salvation and exaltation even beyond the grave” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, page 348).

It seems eternity will be laboring for the good of other entities. 

On other thought concerning the "faithful elders of the dispensation", what about the sisters?  Joseph F. Smith also taught -

“Now, among all these millions of spirits that have lived on the earth and have passed away, from generation to generation, since the beginning of the world, without the knowledge of the gospel—among them you may count that at least one-half are women. Who is going to preach the gospel to the women? Who is going to carry the testimony of Jesus Christ to the hearts of the women who have passed away without a knowledge of the gospel? Well, to my mind, it is a simple thing. These good sisters who have been set apart, ordained to the work, called to it, authorized by the authority of the holy Priesthood to minister for their sex, in the House of God for the living and for the dead, will be fully authorized and empowered to preach the gospel and minister to the women while the elders and prophets are preaching it to the men. The things we experience here are typical of the things of God and the life beyond us. There is a great similarity between God's purposes as manifested here and his purposes as carried out in his presence and kingdom. Those who are authorized to preach the gospel here and are appointed here to do that work will not be idle after they have passed away, but will continue to exercise the rights that they obtained here under the Priesthood of the Son of God to minister for the salvation of those who have died without a knowledge of the truth” (Gospel Doctrine, page 461).

D&C 137

We learn a great deal concerning the final judgment in this revelation received by the Prophet Joseph Smith where the Lord explains -

"...I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 137:9)

In my mind then, there are two requirements that must be satisfied to receive all the blessings of the Father. 

First, we will be judged according to our works.  This would suggest to me, obedience in keeping the commandments which include receiving all saving ordinances and entering into all essential covenants.  Keeping the commandments or works would include consecrating and sacrificing personal time, talents, and means associated with the commandments.

Second, there is another component.  We must receive a change of heart or in other words, the desires of our hearts must turn to godliness.

All this seems simple but necessary for to receive all His gifts and blessings.

D&C 136

As the prophet, Brigham Young, received a revelation concerning the "Camp of Israel" in their "journeyings to the West", he provided some profound doctrine and promises being -

"Let every man use all his influence and property to remove this people to the place where the Lord shall locate a stake of Zion.
11 And if ye do this with a pure heart, in all faithfulness, ye shall be blessed; you shall be blessed in your flocks, and in your herds, and in your fields, and in your houses, and in your families."   (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 136:10 - 11)

For -

"My people must be tried in all things, that they may be prepared to receive the glory that I have for them, even the glory of Zion; and he that will not bear chastisement is not worthy of my kingdom."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 136:31)

And then he states -

"For my Spirit is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble and contrite..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 136:33)

This doctrine that the Spirit enlightens the humble and contrite ties into a revelation that was received by the Prophet Joseph Smith where years earlier, the Prophet testifies -

"THE heavens were opened upon us, and I beheld the celestial kingdom of God, and the glory thereof, whether in the body or out I cannot tell."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 137:1)

This "whether in the body or out" is interesting concept.  The Prophet would teach -

“All things whatsoever God in his infinite wisdom has seen fit and proper to reveal to us, while we are dwelling in mortality, in regard to our mortal bodies, are revealed to us in the abstract, and independent of affinity of this mortal tabernacle, but are revealed to our spirits precisely as though we had no bodies at all; and those revelations which will save our spirits will save our bodies. God reveals them to us in view of no eternal dissolution of the body, or tabernacle” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, page 355)

In other words, when the Lord speaks -

"...I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 8:2)

...He is teaching that He is speaking by the Holy Ghost to our Spirit.

 

D&C 135

For the past two years, I have blogged on my studies of the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants. I note first that John Taylor wrote -

"TO seal the testimony of this book and the Book of Mormon, we announce the martyrdom of Joseph Smith the Prophet, and Hyrum Smith the Patriarch..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 135:1)

John Taylor continued -

"Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 135:3)

The list provided above by John Taylor is far from conclusive.  There is much, much more.  But what touched me this morning was as of the 27th of June, 1844, the date of the martyrdom -

"...Joseph Smith was thirty-eight in December, 1843..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 135:6)

In my mind, it is mind boggling what the Prophet Joseph Smith accompished in such a short time in the restoration of the gospel.  I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet and a prophet of the restoration.  I know this from the witness of the Holy Ghost.  But even if one would to fully study the life of the Prophet and all his accomplishments, teachings, and revelations, by logic alone, would be sufficient testimony to this great man.

Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah
Jesus anointed that Prophet and Seer.
Blessed to open the last dispensation,
Kings shall extol him, and nations revere.

(Chorus)
Hail to the Prophet, ascended to heaven!
Traitors and tyrants now fight him in vain.
Mingling with Gods, he can plan for his brethren,
Death cannot conquer the hero again.

Praise to his mem'ry, he died as a martyr;
Honored and blest be his ever great name!
Long shall his blood, which was shed by assassins,
Plead unto heav'n while the earth lauds his fame.

Great is his glory and endless his priesthood.
Ever and ever the keys he will hold.
Faithful and true, he will enter his kingdom,
Crowned in the midst of the prophets of old.

Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven;
Earth must atone for the blood of that man.
Wake up the world for the conflict of justice.
Millions shall know "Brother Joseph" again.

Text: William W. Phelps, 1792-1872
Music: Scottish folk song

D&C 134

Herein we learn Church doctrine concerning governments.  I would like to note some important principles.

"WE believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:1)

"We believe that no government can exist in peace, except such laws are framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:2)

"We believe that religion is instituted of God; and that men are amenable to him, and to him only, for the exercise of it, unless their religious opinions prompt them to infringe upon the rights and liberties of others; but we do not believe that human law has a right to interfere in prescribing rules of worship to bind the consciences of men, nor dictate forms for public or private devotion; that the civil magistrate should restrain crime, but never control conscience; should punish guilt, but never suppress the freedom of the soul."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:4)

"We believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective governments in which they reside, while protected in their inherent and inalienable rights by the laws of such governments; and that sedition and rebellion are unbecoming every citizen thus protected, and should be punished accordingly; and that all governments have a right to enact such laws as in their own judgments are best calculated to secure the public interest; at the same time, however, holding sacred the freedom of conscience."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:5)

"We do not believe it just to mingle religious influence with civil government, whereby one religious society is fostered and another proscribed in its spiritual privileges, and the individual rights of its members, as citizens, denied.
10 We believe that all religious societies have a right to deal with their members for disorderly conduct, according to the rules and regulations of such societies; provided that such dealings be for fellowship and good standing; but we do not believe that any religious society has authority to try men on the right of property or life, to take from them this world's goods, or to put them in jeopardy of either life or limb, or to inflict any physical punishment upon them. They can only excommunicate them from their society, and withdraw from them their fellowship.
11 We believe that men should appeal to the civil law for redress of all wrongs and grievances, where personal abuse is inflicted or the right of property or character infringed, where such laws exist as will protect the same; but we believe that all men are justified in defending themselves, their friends, and property, and the government, from the unlawful assaults and encroachments of all persons in times of exigency, where immediate appeal cannot be made to the laws, and relief afforded."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:9 - 11)

"We believe it just to preach the gospel to the nations of the earth, and warn the righteous to save themselves from the corruption of the world; but we do not believe it right to interfere with bond-servants, neither preach the gospel to, nor baptize them contrary to the will and wish of their masters, nor to meddle with or influence them in the least to cause them to be dissatisfied with their situations in this life, thereby jeopardizing the lives of men; such interference we believe to be unlawful and unjust, and dangerous to the peace of every government allowing human beings to be held in servitude."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 134:12)

This last verse was given before emancipation.  But it still holds true in other nations where this practice is permitted.

D&C 133

As the work of salvation is being hastened, the Lord describes how His work will proceed saying -

"...for this cause, that men might be made partakers of the glories which were to be revealed, the Lord sent forth the fulness of his gospel, his everlasting covenant, reasoning in plainness and simplicity—
58 To prepare the weak for those things which are coming on the earth, and for the Lord's errand in the day when the weak shall confound the wise, and the little one become a strong nation, and two shall put their tens of thousands to flight.
59 And by the weak things of the earth the Lord shall thrash the nations by the power of his Spirit."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:57 - 59)

I find it interesting the the gospel is found in plainess and simplicity where it can be taught and testified by the weak, contrary to the world thinking that the elite possesses all wisdom.

And of those that will not "receive" His servants (the weak and humble) and simple gospel truths, the -

"...the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:64)

When those that think they are so wise wonder why they have been burnt as an oven -

"...this shall be the answer of the Lord unto them:
66 In that day when I came unto mine own, no man among you received me, and you were driven out.
67 When I called again there was none of you to answer; yet my arm was not shortened at all that I could not redeem, neither my power to deliver."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:65 - 67)

Therefore -

"...this shall ye have of my hand—ye shall lie down in sorrow.
71 Behold, and lo, there are none to deliver you; for ye obeyed not my voice when I called to you out of the heavens; ye believed not my servants, and when they were sent unto you ye received them not.
72 Wherefore, they sealed up the testimony and bound up the law, and ye were delivered over unto darkness.
73 These shall go away into outer darkness, where there is weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:70 - 73)

D&C 133

In preparation to the second coming of the Savior, the Lord describes two gatherings that was to take place wherein the Lord said first -

"Let them, therefore, who are among the Gentiles flee unto Zion."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:12)

And then -

"...let them who be of Judah flee unto Jerusalem, unto the mountains of the Lord's house."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:13)

I see the gathering of the "Gentiles" to be in relationship to the doctrine and gospel of Jesus Christ more than to a location, where the Jews are to gathered in relationship to a location, being Jerusalem.  This seem apparent as the Lord instruct -

"...O my people; sanctify yourselves; gather ye together, O ye people of my church, upon the land of Zion, all you that have not been commanded to tarry."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:4)

And as the people accept His gospel -

"...Go ye forth unto the land of Zion, that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:9)

These stakes of Zion would scattered throughout the world.  In order to "sanctify" ourselves, as we gather, we must -

"Go ye out from Babylon. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:5)

Even -

"Go ye out from among the nations, even from Babylon, from the midst of wickedness, which is spiritual Babylon.
15 But verily, thus saith the Lord, let not your flight be in haste, but let all things be prepared before you; and he that goeth, let him not look back lest sudden destruction shall come upon him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 133:14 - 15)

Much like Lot's wife, we must not look back or in other words, long for Babylon.

Recently, we had a stake  handcart trek with the theme, "Come, Come Ye Saints" suggesting an invitation to come to Christ.  In order to come, we must flee.  We must flee Babylon and not look back.

D&C 132

As priesthood leaders are lay members of the Church and are not necessarily perfect, the Lord provides some importance counsel concerning the Prophet Joseph Smith where He instructed -

"...if a man be called of my Father, as was Aaron, by mine own voice, and by the voice of him that sent me, and I have endowed him with the keys of the power of this priesthood, if he do anything in my name, and according to my law and by my word, he will not commit sin, and I will justify him."  (
Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:59)

In my mind, the Lord is basically saying that if a priesthood leader is called and set apart, even receiving priesthood keys, and in his calling he does things in the name of the Lord according to the laws and words of the Savior, having not committed any serious sin, the Lord will support and justify his counsel.  That is why the Lord follows with -

"Let no one, therefore, set on my servant Joseph; for I will justify him; for he shall do the sacrifice which I require at his hands for his transgressions, saith the Lord your God."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:60)

In other words, having followed this pattern committing sin which is not serious, the Prophet is still a man that must repent of his sins.  Even so, the Lord will justify him in his calling.

 

D&C 132

This revelation came about because the Prophet Joseph asked concerning plural marriage wherein teh Lord answered -

"...that inasmuch as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand wherein I, the Lord, justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also Moses, David and Solomon, my servants, as touching the principle and doctrine of their having many wives and concubines—
2 Behold, and lo, I am the Lord thy God, and will answer thee as touching this matter."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:1 - 2)

As we contemplate the doctrine of plural marraige, we must first understand that the Lord said -

"...hear me, and hearken to the word of the Lord: For there shall not any man among you have save it be one wife; and concubines he shall have none;
28 For I, the Lord God, delight in the chastity of women. And whoredoms are an abomination before me; thus saith the Lord of Hosts.
29 Wherefore, this people shall keep my commandments, saith the Lord of Hosts, or cursed be the land for their sakes.
30 For if I will, saith the Lord of Hosts, raise up seed unto me, I will command my people..."  (Book of Mormon | Jacob 2:27 - 30)

It is apparent that plural marraige is only approved and appropriate only when the Lord commands it.  When the Lord commands it, it overrides all other commandments for -

"Abraham was commanded to offer his son Isaac; nevertheless, it was written: Thou shalt not kill. Abraham, however, did not refuse, and it was accounted unto him for righteousness."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:36)

In the same manner -

"God commanded Abraham, and Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to wife. And why did she do it? Because this was the law; and from Hagar sprang many people. This, therefore, was fulfilling, among other things, the promises.
35 Was Abraham, therefore, under condemnation? Verily I say unto you, Nay; for I, the Lord, commanded it." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:34 - 35)

And thus -

"Abraham received concubines, and they bore him children; and it was accounted unto him for righteousness, because they were given unto him, and he abode in my law; as Isaac also and Jacob did none other things than that which they were commanded; and because they did none other things than that which they were commanded..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:37)

But in David's case -

"David's wives and concubines were given unto him of me, by the hand of Nathan, my servant, and others of the prophets who had the keys of this power; and in none of these things did he sin against me save in the case of Uriah and his wife..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:39)

This is because this action was contrary to the will and commandments of the Lord.  You will note that this commandment or authorization came by Nathan, a prophet of God.   Even though we may not understand the meaning of all things, in regards to plural marriage, it comes down to being obedient to the commandments of the Lord and His holy prophets, according to His mind and will.

D&C 132

In preface to this revelation, I find this is one of the more difficult revelations to blog about in that, to me, the entire revelation needs to be read and written to understand this doctrine.  I will say that verses 3 through 33 are on the topic of the new and everlasting covenant of marriage (a critical component of "the new and everlasting covenant" where verses 34 through 66 are on the topic of plural marraige.  It is important to not confuse the two. 

In section 22, we learn that baptism is and essential part of the new and everlasting covenant.  We now learn that celestial marraige is also essential in the the new and everlasting covenant.  We have already learned that -

"IN the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;
2 And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage];
3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 131:1 - 3)

It is for this reason that the Lord provide this revelation teaching -

"...all who will have a blessing at my hands shall abide the law which was appointed for that blessing, and the conditions thereof, as were instituted from before the foundation of the world.
6 And as pertaining to the new and everlasting covenant, it was instituted for the fulness of my glory; and he that receiveth a fulness thereof must and shall abide the law, or he shall be damned, saith the Lord God.
7 And verily I say unto you, that the conditions of this law are these: All covenants, contracts, bonds, obligations, oaths, vows, performances, connections, associations, or expectations, that are not made and entered into and sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed, both as well for time and for all eternity, and that too most holy, by revelation and commandment through the medium of mine anointed, whom I have appointed on the earth to hold this power (and I have appointed unto my servant Joseph to hold this power in the last days, and there is never but one on the earth at a time on whom this power and the keys of this priesthood are conferred), are of no efficacy, virtue, or force in and after the resurrection from the dead; for all contracts that are not made unto this end have an end when men are dead."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:5 - 7)

I believe that these conditions apply to the entire "the new and everlasting covenant".  But because the focus of this revelation is "a new and everlasting covenant" or a new and everlasting covenant of marraige, much of the discussion is regarding that ordinance and covenant.  Everything is to be done as the Lord has oulined for -

"Will I accept of an offering, saith the Lord, that is not made in my name?
10 Or will I receive at your hands that which I have not appointed?"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:9 - 10)

Answering His own question, the Lord states -

"I am the Lord thy God; and I give unto you this commandment—that no man shall come unto the Father but by me or by my word, which is my law, saith the Lord."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:12)

For -

"...except ye abide my law ye cannot attain to this glory."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:21)

For exaltation is the glorification and being one of husband and wife, for -

"This is eternal lives..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:24)

Having -

"...a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:19)

This is summarized by the life and example of Abraham for -

Abraham received promises concerning his seed, and of the fruit of his loins—from whose loins ye are, namely, my servant Joseph—which were to continue so long as they were in the world; and as touching Abraham and his seed, out of the world they should continue; both in the world and out of the world should they continue as innumerable as the stars; or, if ye were to count the sand upon the seashore ye could not number them.
31 This promise is yours also, because ye are of Abraham, and the promise was made unto Abraham; and by this law is the continuation of the works of my Father, wherein he glorifieth himself.
32 Go ye, therefore, and do the works of Abraham; enter ye into my law and ye shall be saved.
33 But if ye enter not into my law ye cannot receive the promise of my Father, which he made unto Abraham."  (
Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:30 - 33)

I specifically note that in addition to the fruit of his loins in this world, but also "Abraham and his seed, out of the world they should continue; both in the world and out of the world".  This is eternal lives!

Eternal Perspective

For my blog this morning, I wanted to include my remarks Saturday evening in an adult session of stake conference on the topic of having an eternal perspective:
 

One of the principles of fluid dynamics is that a fluid or liquid pushes back at the same pressure equal to the amount of fluid that has been displaced.  This becomes obvious as you sit in a boat.  The water around the boat pushes against the boat equal to the amount of water that has been displaced by the boat.  If you want to challenge that scientific principle, you could drill a hole in the side of the boat below the water line and watch the pressure of water flow into the boat.  A good test but not very smart.

 

We witness this same principle with a boat that is in motion; the water resists or pushes back at the boat as it moves forward.  But, at the same time, as the boat moves forward, water rushes back behind the boat, pushing the boat forward.  If there was no such thing as friction, the boat would remain indefinitely in motion.   Such continuous motion would support Newton's first law of inertial; that "a body at rest will remain at rest or a body in motion will remain in motions unless an outside force acts upon it".

It is interesting that the physical properties of air follow much of the same principles of fluid dynamics.  Again, air pushes back equal to the quantity air that is displaced.  But because air is so much more fine and invisible so to speak, we generally do not recognize this to be so.  In fact, because we do not see air, I'm sure that there would be some that would deny the existence of air if we did not need it to breath, or if we did not feel the wind as it flows across our faces.

For many years, science accepted Isaac Newton's theory of gravity, that that bodies attract one another.  Newton called it gravitational pull.  The larger the body the greater the attraction or the pulling force of gravity.  Thus, per his theory, we are attracted to the large body of the earth.  But many years after the widely acceptance of the Newtonian theory of gravity, Albert Einstein postulated that bodies are not pulled to earth, but surprisingly pushed to earth. 

Applying much the same principles of fluid dynamics, the same principles associated with water and air, Einstein postulated (in a more simplified manner) that space pushes back equal to the quantity of space displaced by large bodies such as the earth. 

Thus, he claimed, we are pushed back to earth by space.  During the mid 20th century, this theory of relativity was supposedly proven true.  He entitled his theory as the space-time continuum.  To which, I would respond ...whatever! 

But in my simple mind, if his theory is true, I would have to reason, if space pushes back equal to the quantity of space that is displaced, much like water and air, then space has to be something.  It cannot be nothing.  I have even wondered if space is nothing more than "matter unorganized".  For the Lord has revealed –

"There is no such thing as immaterial matter..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 131:7)

Even adding, for an example that –

"All spirit is matter, but it is more fine or pure, and can only be discerned by purer eyes..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 131:7)

And maybe just in order to humble mankind when we begin to think we are so smart, the Savior also taught –

"...there are many kingdoms; for there is no space in the which there is no kingdom; and there is no kingdom in which there is no space, either a greater or a lesser kingdom."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:37)

To which, again...my response is...whatever.  My simple thinking is more in line with Nephi's –

"...I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things."  (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 11:17)

Maybe that is why Jacob would later write that –

“…it is impossible that man should find out all his ways…”  (Book of Mormon | Jacob 4:8)

But even though His ways and knowledge of all things may seem incomprehensible and difficult for us to understand, yet, the Lord has counseled us to –

"...Treasure these things up in your hearts, and let the solemnities of eternity rest upon your minds."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 43:34)

 

As we step back and contemplate the immensity space, we can't help but ponder the solemnities of the eternities.   For example, we find it very difficult to comprehend that space goes on and on forever, or in other words, infinity or for an eternity.  Yet at the same time, we cannot comprehend an end to space, for our logical reasoning would suggest that if space did end, then there must be something on the other side.

In the same manner as space, we find it difficult to comprehend no beginning of time nor end of time.  But even so, if we are commanded to ponder the solemnities of eternity, then we are thus counseled to ponder our infinite and eternal nature and its relationship to the purpose of this life.  In other words, where did we come from, why are we here, and where are we going.

I am sure that one reason He commands us "let the solemnities of eternity rest upon our lives, is because in our day-to-day responsibilities such as work, family, and church, as well as challenges related to health, caring for the elderly, and many other tribulations, we may fail to pause and reflect on the big picture of things and the overall purpose of our existence. 

The Lord desires that we begin to look at things as He does.  He wants us to look at life with an Eternal perspective.

In order to do that, we need to pause, and have, what some call, a "high mountain" experience.  Abraham, Nephi, the Brother of Jared, Moses, and many others had "high mountain" experiences where we are scripturally blessed to be able to read the visions of the eternities that rested upon their minds.

Not long ago, I was on an air flight where I left from a foreign land.  The flight seemed to last forever.  Finally, as we made preparation for landing at the Salt Lake airport, I looked out the window.  I remember thinking…there is my life.  Over there is where I live and go to church.  Right there is where I drive to work every day.  And right below me right now is my office.  And then, in what seemed to be just a moment, it was over and we landed at the airport.

I couldn’t help but compare this experience to the eternities and our life here on earth.  First, we have come from eternity...that is, each of us has always been.  That is a hard thing to comprehend, but of great importance that we do.  The scriptures provide some limited insight on the matter.

As I was recently reading, what many early saints referred to as “the vision”, what is now the 76th section of the Doctrine and Covenants, there was one verse seemed to jump out off of the page –

“…for the Lord is God, and beside him there is no Savior…. From eternity to eternity he is the same...”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 76:1 - 4)

What a profound truth.  That is, from eternity, even to eternity, the Savior has been and will be the same.  In my mind, that would suggest that the Savior has always been, and (this is important) has always been the same.  This suggests to me that He has always been the same person or better said,  personage and also a personage of the same gender…and in His particular case, He was found worthy to be the Firstborn of spirits to our Heavenly Parents.

This being so, reason would follow that since we are spirit siblings of the Savior, that we too are from eternity and we have always been the same.  And thus, we have always been personages of the same gender.  This follows "The Family, a Proclamation to the World", which states…

"Gender is an essential characteristic of individual pre-mortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose."

Little is revealed of our pre-spirit existence other than Abraham was told that there were –

“…intelligences that were organized before the world was…”  (Pearl of Great Price | Abraham 3:22)

In other words, gathered or grouped together. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught –

"...The intelligence of spirits had no beginning, neither will it have an end..." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith)

For –

"...Intelligence...was not created or made, neither indeed can be."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:29)

And of "intelligences", you and I that had no beginning, the Lord defined intelligence as that which –

“…forsake that evil one.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:37)

This would suggest to me then, that as personages of intelligence, being from eternity, we must have in some manner, forsaken evil.  With the eternal law of agency and the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ, we too must have proved worthy, as the Savior, to become spirit offspring of Divine Parents, for as Paul taught on Mars Hill that –

“…we are also his offspring….”  (New Testament | Acts 17:28)

Thus as intelligences, we were clothed spirit bodies.  I have no idea how long we lived in this pre-mortal existence as spirit personages other than we are taught that our agency continued there.  Living life as spirit beings, it seems apparent that we continued developing faith in Jesus Christ and His infinite atonement, we gained knowledge, and having been given agency, we must have strived to repent and forsake evil.

                                         
Then the day came when it was made known that we were to be given the opportunity to obtain bodies of flesh and blood much like our Heavenly Parents.  The plan presented apparently followed much the same pattern as that from eternity.  The plan was that in this next estate, with our God given agency,  we would face the challenge of seeking truth, again striving to forsake the evil one, and developing faith in Jesus Christ and His infinite atonement.  But in this new estate, a new condition of a veil of forgetfulness would be draped across our minds…and in addition with this veil of forgetfulness, another condition would be that we would be required to live in a telestial world having opposition in all things.  And it would be, while living in this next estate, facing these new and challenging conditions, that our divine parents said –

"...we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them..."  (Pearl of Great Price | Abraham 3:25)

Having looked forward to this great test and growing opportunity, even from eternity, it is written that –

“…the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy…”  (Old Testament | Job 38:7)

Now that we are here, experiencing such things as pain, sorrow and tribulation, we may not necessarily be as excited as we were then.  That is why, periodically, we need to pause and set aside a little time in order to reflect, and ponder the solemnities of eternity.  As we do, we will  begin to better understand how insignificant the relative time of this life is in comparison to the landscape of space and eternity.   Is it any wonder, the Savior told the Prophet Joseph Smith, as he suffered in the Liberty Jail? –

“My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment...” (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:7)

Yes, from an eternal perspective, obviously, this life is but a small moment when compared to the eternities, even though at times, it may not seem as such.  But the Lord promised –

“…if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:8)

Even though, in our limited mortal perspective, this life many not seem like a moment, the Lord has lovingly said –

"Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation.

4 For after much tribulation come the blessings...." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 58:3 – 4)

For us to have a so called "high mountain" experience, we must step away for our day-to-day activities and find time and a place to let the solemnities of eternity rest upon our minds.  Obviously, one "high mountain" where we can step away too would be the "Mountain of the Lord's House" or His holy temple.  It is there that we are taught and reminded of "the plan" and the eternal nature of things. 

Other high mountain or holy places may be in the home, where we may study and ponder the scriptures, kneel in personal and family prayer, and take to time to have meaningful conversations. 

Another holy place where we may have a high mountain experience might be during the prelude music of sacrament meeting and in the administration of the sacrament.  Of course, to have this high mountain experience during the prelude music would require many of us to come to Church a little bit earlier, wouldn't it? 

And you may also find other personal holy places where you can quietly ponder the solemnities of eternity.

Much like my flight into the Salt Lake airport, a similar experience can be had as one departs the airport to a distant destination.  Again, just for a moment, one may again see one's life pass before them as they are fly off to some foreign destination.

As we again make an analogy of this experience in relationship to the purpose of life and eternities, our final destination in the eternities will be determined by how we keep His commandments and endure the tribulations of this life.

Those that end up being judged as "the wicked”, because they will not repent, believe it or not, will receive an eternal reward of glory.  I believe that they have earned such a glorious reward because of the manner of their progression “from eternity”.  Obviously, they must have earned some kind of reward.

But it is important to understand that they will only receive this glory after they have suffered for their own sins.  It has always been then that way.  Those that will not repent must suffer for their own sins…even as it has been established from the eternities. This is called the law of justice.  After their resurrection, their glory will be limited though, even as that of the stars as compared to the sun.

I confess this evening that I have a personal obsession and weakness when it comes to sports and competition.  I admit that I get too wrapped up in sports and in winning and losing.  When a team I want to win loses, something deep inside me seems to burn and irritate the heck out of me and even I times, I can’t get to sleep. 

My mind logically reasons that a loss in sport really doesn't matter and has no importance or impact in my life.  But even as I try to talk myself out of it, the frustration and burning tends to remains.

What I’ve come to realize is that which is really bothering me is the idea “of what could have been”, that is , how much more happier and content I would have been had they only won.  I admit that this frustration usually lasts a day or two and then it goes away. 

But sometimes it doesn’t go away so easy.  To this day, I still don’t like hearing the name of Michael Jordan...it tends to recall some painful memories.  I sometimes experience the same feelings with politics where I find myself thinking again "oh, how much better things would have been, if only..."  I will avoid going into any more detail on that this evening.

Considering the final state of the wicked, It is my personal opinion that even though the impenitent will receive a comparative glory of the stars, I believe that these are they that will live for an eternity of with “what could have been”.  In my mind, that is why the Lord described it as –

"...the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."  (New Testament | Revelation 21:8)

 “…whose flames are unquenchable, and whose smoke ascendeth up forever and ever, which lake of fire and brimstone is endless torment.”  (Book of Mormon | Jacob 6:10)

Again, it is my personal opinion that this “forever and ever” lake of fire and brimstone will be the haunting eternal question of "what could have been?"

There is also another group that will receive glory which we know is much greater when compared to the stars, but which glory is that of the moon as compared to the sun.  The scriptures describe several types of groups and individuals that may qualify for this glory.  But of all these individuals, He summarizes the key condition that qualifies, or better said, limits an individual to this glory is –

“These are they who are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus…” (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 76:79)

Obviously then, these are they that at some point, whether in this life or the next, received a testimony of Jesus, but then chose to not be valiant in that testimony. 

In my mind, those that are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus would be those that give up, who harden their hearts(Jacob 6:4).  These are they then that fail to strive to keep the commandments and their covenants, or in other words, they take them lightly...as well as, they fail to endure to the end.  Of these that are not valiant, the Lord said –

"...it shall be tolerable for them."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 45:54)

How would you like to spend the rest of eternity having received a glory that is only "tolerable"?  In my mind, an eternal life that would barely tolerable would be like being assigned to teach Jr. High School forever and ever. 

Maybe, one of the logical reasons that this glory will be barely tolerable throughout eternity will because the joy and happiness that comes through family life will be lost.  For me, not having the blessing of family would be intolerable and unbearable.

But the greatest destination or glory would be that of eternal life and exaltation –

"...which is the greatest of all the gifts of God..."(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 6:13)

Those that receive this glory are they that are valiant being defined as these –

"...are they who received the testimony of Jesus, and believed on his name and were baptized after the manner of his burial…

52  That by keeping the commandments they might be washed and cleansed from all their sins, and receive the Holy Spirit by the laying on of the hands of him who is ordained and sealed unto this power;

53  And who overcome by faith, and are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, which the Father sheds forth upon all those who are just and true."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 76:51 - 53)

This is the doctrine of Christ.  This is being valiant in the testimony of Jesus. These are they that continue to strive to keep their covenants.

Of the valiant, the promises are, these are –

"...they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever."  (Pearl of Great Price | Abraham 3:26)

Where –

"...all that my Father hath shall be given unto [them]."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:38)

These are they that –

"...shall come forth in the first resurrection...and shall inherit thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers, dominions, all heights and depths...to their exaltation and glory in all things...which glory shall be a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:19)

In other words, families will be forever, for  –

"...that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 130:2)

Where –

"...[their] dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto [them] forever and ever."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:46)

"This is eternal lives..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:24)

This is what can be for each of us for the eternities.

I would like to return back to the basement dungeon of Liberty Jail.  As the suffering Prophet Joseph Smith began writing an inspired letter to the saints, he lamented -

"O GOD, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?...
3  Yea, O Lord, how long shall they suffer these wrongs and unlawful oppressions, before thine heart shall be softened toward them, and thy bowels be moved with compassion toward them?"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:1 - 3)

He even pleaded "Oh our God" –

"Remember thy suffering saints..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:6)

And then, as he continued to write this letter, he had a "high mountain" experience, even in an underground dungeon, the Lord revealed some of the most profound doctrines of this dispensation we now know as sections 121, 122, 123 of the Doctrine and Covenants.  It was as he was writing this inspired letter; he was inspired to write –

"...because the things of God are of deep import; and time, and experience, and careful and ponderous and solemn thoughts can only find them out. Thy mind, O man! if thou wilt lead a soul unto salvation, must stretch as high as the utmost heavens, and search into and contemplate the darkest abyss, and the broad expanse of eternity—thou must commune with God...."  (Letter to the Saints)

It was at the conclusion of this grand experience, having now received a much higher perspective, even God's perspective, that a marvelous transformation seem to take place in the Prophet.  Whereas a discouraged Prophet began his letter, a more positive Prophet finished this letter with –

"Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:17)

Having had a high mountain experience, or seeing things as God sees them, the Prophet had miraculously transformed from " O GOD, where art thou? Remember thy suffering saints" to "let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power".

The Prophet would later write –

"...as for the perils which I am called to pass through, they seem but a small thing to me..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 127:2)

This transformation can happen in all of us. What great wisdom may be had as we pause to have high mountain experiences, receiving an eternal perspective, allowing –

"...the solemnities of eternity [to] rest upon [our] minds."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 43:34)

As a stake presidency, we are somewhat aware of your challenges, your afflictions, your trials and tribulations.  We pray for you regularly.  We even pray for many of you that may be silently suffering. 

But in all your afflictions and tribulations, we hope and pray that you will continue to contemplate the solemnities of eternity that you will strive to have "high mountain" experiences.  And in doing so, we pray that you will remember the words of the Savior –

"...peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;

8  And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:7 - 8)

"...the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 58:4)

Therefore, I conclude this evening with a comforting promise of the Savior –

"...even yet the kingdom is yours, and shall be forever, if you fall not from your steadfastness."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 82:24)