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Eternal Gospel Principles And Ultimate Origins

Joseph Smith clearly taught that all intelligences are co-eternal, so I'm curious as to LDS views on ultimate origins. Were there "first gods" and how did they get their start to exaltation? If they followed "Eternal Gospel Principles" to reach that status, where did these principles originate? If these principles guide moral behaviors, wouldn't they have to be founded in a sentient being? That would seem to hint at some kind of "super-god" above all the intelligences striving for exaltation.

There is also the issue of an infinite past. If we, and all intelligences have an actually infinite past, how did we reach the present day? If you go back to any point in the past, there is still an infinite amount of time behind it. Most other Christian try to avoid this problem by positing that all created beings are limited in time, while God transcends it.

I'm an atheist myself, but I find Mormonism fascinating because its theology is so radically different than "traditional" christian sects and I haven't been able to find any LDS views on this issue.

Message Edited...
JB: Removed references that are not necessary.

Origins Ultimate Principles Gospel Eternal

Some of this we Discuss in the LDS Mature Board so I will not go into the theological aspects here, but I understand your thinking or should I say perspective. It is largely based on man's concept of time and because of that we measure everything based on a beginning and an end. This measure is because of death. Everything mortal essentially has an end to it so it is measured in time therefore eternity is incomprehensible to us just as the vastness of the universe. Your interest in this Topic as an atheist is with what end result in mind? You are searching for Truth? If not, then why do you ask?

Rather off topic, but...
Please look up "Atheism" or "Atheist" in the top Search Box and see Topics you may want to respond to. Thanks.

Eternal Gospel Principles And Ultimate Origins Studies Doctrine Mormon

Hi JB,

Thanks for your response. My background is in philosophy and theology and although I am an atheist, I have no negative attitudes to those of faith. In response to your question, I am on a continuing search for truth, and I consider myself open to any claims that are supported by reason and evidence.

My primary interests remain in religious studies, and Mormonism is especially fascinating because it represents such a radical break from Protestant and Catholic thought of the 19th century. I'm particularly interested in foundational concepts, which is why I asked the questions I did. I didn't think I was asking about anything restricted, such as Temple Endowments, but if my questions press into areas that members are not comfortable addressing, I certainly won't press the issue.

Origins Ultimate Principles Gospel Eternal

I understand. It is not that I feel uncomfortable about Discussing anything concerning LDS Doctrines or myths, it is just that certain Topics are restricted from Public Discussion regardless to whether you are LDS or not. For a list of those you may want to check this Thread: Source 5 You are most welcome to participate anywhere here you will like to so long as the Topic does not go into restricted subjects.

Rather off topic, but...
You should look up Threads within the other Religious Boards as well especially the General Religions Board as it contains Topics of break away LDS groups and other cults. Additionally there are Threads there on Atheism I will be interested to see your perspective on.

Origins Ultimate Principles Gospel Eternal

Name: Luke

Comments: I don't think any of us really have those answers. We know there is a plurality of gods but how far back or what is the beginning is not known at the moment.

Eternal Gospel Principles And Ultimate Origins

Actually, both Joseph Smith and Brigham Young taught that there was never a beginning and there was never a first God. While it is true that we all existed eternally and never had a beginning as intelligences, nevertheless, we did have a beginning as spirit children of God and as mortal beings. Does that answer your questions?