Hi Gramps,
In the past we have had investigators at our ward who have been baptised and received the Holy Ghost and then we never see them again. When they eventually go through the veil are they destined for Spirit Prison to be taught or are they destined for paradise because they have been baptised and confirmed?
John
____________
John,
One of the most unfortunate and sad experiences in the Church is to watch people who are so happy after their baptism and then to watch them slowly or immediately no longer attend church.
In answer to your question the scriptures provide us with a clear distinction between those who are accepted into paradise, and why others are received in spirit prison.
Alma once shared, Alma 40:11-14, “that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise…”
It is clear from the words of Alma that our righteousness is what allows or permits a person to enter paradise.
Alma continues by saying, “or behold, they have no part nor portion of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works rather than good;…”
In light of Alma’s word’s spoke in this verse it is also clear the souls who are received into spirit prison. The question we must ask ourselves is, “Are these individuals continuing in righteousness or are they living in sin?”
With the answer to this question we can assume which place they will be received to, although the judgement surely comes from the Lord.
Sincerely,
Gramps