Question
Gramps,
What is the difference between eternal life and exaltation?
JJ
Answer
JJ,
Immortality, in the context of Latter-day Saint theology, refers to the state of living forever after death. According to Church teachings, all individuals will experience immortality as a result of Jesus Christ’s Atonement. This means that every person, regardless of their actions during mortal life, will be resurrected and receive an immortal body, free from death and decay.
The concept of immortality is universal; it applies to everyone, from the most righteous to the most wicked. The resurrection, which is a key component of immortality, is viewed as a gift from the Savior. This gift is made possible through His Atonement, which conquered death and sin. As noted in the Book of Mormon, “the grave hath no victory, and the sting of death is swallowed up in Christ” (Mosiah 16:8). Thus, immortality is not contingent upon one’s righteousness but is a fundamental aspect of the human experience post-mortality.
How is the sting of death swallowed up in Christ?
1. The sting of the death of a loved one can be swallowed up by the compassion and mercy of Him who knows how to succor his people according to their infirmities.
2. The sting of death is also lessened by the great sealing ordinances of the temple.
3. Death is not a frightening or painful experience for the righteous.
4. Paul explained that the sting of death is sin. The powers of sin are also overcome by the Savior.
Understanding immortality is essential for grasping the broader Latter-day Saint doctrine. It establishes the foundation upon which the concepts of eternal life and exaltation are built. While all will be immortal, not all will attain the same level of glory or progression in the afterlife. This distinction leads us to the next concept: eternal life.
Eternal life, as understood in Latter-day Saint theology, is more than just living forever; it is a state of existence characterized by a close relationship with God. It is often described as “living with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ in the celestial kingdom.” This concept comes from the teachings of Jesus, who stated, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3).
Harold B. Lee had this to say:
Eternal life is God’s life, or life with God. In other words, it seems to me, they are trying to tell us that the worthiness to abide in his holy presence can be obtained only by knowing God and by knowing Jesus Christ whom he has sent. (Conference Report, October 1956, Afternoon Meeting 61.)
Achieving eternal life requires more than mere belief; it requires active participation in the gospel of Jesus Christ. According to Latter-day Saint doctrine, individuals must live by the principles of the gospel, accept and honor covenants, and strive for righteousness. As I explained in another answer, “If we live by all the laws of the gospel, accepting and living in accordance with all the covenants pertaining thereto, then we eventually shall be exalted.” This process involves a commitment to follow Christ and to engage in ordinances such as baptism and temple covenants.
Ezra Taft Benson said this:
We cannot know God and Jesus without studying about them and then doing their will. This course leads to additional revealed knowledge that, if obeyed, will eventually lead us to further truths. When we follow this pattern, we will receive further light and joy, eventually leading into God’s presence where we, with Him, will have a fullness. (Come unto Christ [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1983], 32.)
Covenants play a crucial role in the pursuit of eternal life. Among these, the covenant of marriage for time and eternity is particularly significant. The Church teaches that exalted couples will inherit “all that the Father hath” and will have the opportunity to continue to procreate and bear children in the afterlife. This belief shows the importance of family and relationships in the eternal plan of salvation.
Exaltation is the highest state of glory that one can achieve in the afterlife. It is often equated with eternal life, but is more specific in its implications. Exaltation refers to the process of becoming like God, inheriting all that He has, and living in His presence. Again, as I noted in another answer, “As couples become exalted, they attain the status of godhood.” Latter-day Saints believe that human beings are children of God and have the potential to become like Him.
Achieving exaltation is not an automatic process; it requires significant effort and adherence to the principles of the gospel. The teachings of the Church emphasize that individuals must be faithful, obedient, and willing to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. As stated in Doctrine and Covenants 76:50-70, those who are exalted will be “gods, even the sons of God.” This scripture highlights the transformative nature of exaltation, which allows individuals to progress and attain divine attributes.
Rudger Clawson, a former Apostle until his death in 1943, had this to say:
Section 76 is a great revelation. We can sit down by ourselves and determine just which glory will satisfy us and how we can obtain it, and we are left without excuse. This great revelation appears in the book, and it is worthy of study and deep reflection. (Conference Report, October 1937, Church of the Air Broadcast 111.)
Exaltation is viewed as a journey rather than a destination. It involves continuous growth and development, even beyond this life. As I’ve explained in the past, “It will take us ages to accomplish this end, for there will be greater progress beyond the grave.” This perspective encourages believers to view their mortal lives as a time of preparation for the eternal journey ahead.
Gramps
