In a deeply profound sermon, the Prophet Joseph Smith introduced the concept that intelligence, or the light of truth, is an eternal principle. This sermon, known as the King Follett discourse, explores the idea that intelligence has always existed, predating even the organization of spirits into the human form we recognize today. This foundational understanding opens up a pathway to exploring the very essence of existence and the pivotal role of the Atonement in the grand scheme of everything.
The Eternal Nature of Intelligence
At the heart of Joseph Smith’s teachings is the assertion that intelligence is not a creation of the moment but an eternal entity. This perspective shifts our understanding of existence, suggesting that our spirits are comprised of these eternal intelligences. This revelation begs the question: Why was this concept so crucial for Joseph Smith to convey, especially as he neared the end of his life? The answer lies in the importance of recognizing the eternal journey of intelligence and its significance in understanding the Atonement’s comprehensive impact.
The Interplay of Action and Creation
The teachings of Lehi in the Book of Mormon elucidate that God created all things, including entities that act and are acted upon. This dichotomy introduces the concept that not only humans have the agency to act but all forms of life possess this capability within their divine design. This framework extends to the Doctrine and Covenants, which further clarifies that intelligence, or the light of truth, was never created and is eternal, underpinning the doctrine that all truth and intelligence exist independently within their divine sphere.
The Doctrine of Eternal Progression
A deep dive into the Doctrine and Covenants and the teachings of early Church leaders like Orson Pratt reveals a fascinating analogy: just as atoms are the building blocks of matter, intelligences are the fundamental particles of spirit. This analogy extends to the understanding that intelligences, though eternal and indivisible, can be organized into various forms of life, including human spirits. This organizational principle reflects the divine process of creation and the eternal progression of intelligence towards greater light, truth, and happiness.
The Plan of Salvation: A Framework for Eternal Progression
Understanding the eternal nature of intelligence and its organization into spirit beings provides a profound context for the Plan of Salvation. The scriptures reveal that spirits vary in intelligence, reflecting their unique experiences and progressions through eternity. This variance underscores the personalized journey of each spirit within the grand design of God’s plan, aiming for eternal progression and the realization of our divine potential.
Embracing Our Divine Heritage and Potential
The teachings surrounding intelligence and its eternal progression invite us to view our existence and identity through a sacred lens. Recognizing ourselves as embodiments of eternal intelligence organized in the image of God challenges us to appreciate the sanctity of our current mortal experience. This perspective encourages us to live in harmony with the divine blueprint of creation, embracing our unique identities while striving towards the perfection exemplified by Jesus Christ.
A Call to Action and Progression
The concept of eternal intelligence not only deepens our understanding of the divine nature of existence but also clarifies the purpose behind the Atonement and our journey towards salvation. As we contemplate our place within this eternal framework, we are invited to engage actively in our spiritual progression, embracing the divine command to subdue and harmonize the intelligences within us. In doing so, we align ourselves with the ultimate goal of the Plan of Salvation: to progress eternally and partake in the divine nature and glory of God.