If one could do a historical analysis over the entire span of authorized prophets, going from expelled Adam to President Thomas S. Monson, then what would be the doctrines of perpetuity that would span all time? Clearly, the way we implement the gospel now in the 21st century is NOT identical to the gospel implementation of the 1st century. Obviously, revelation allows each period of time and each dispensation to proceed a little differently. Some teachings will be the same, but others will be different. God may not change, but people do.
Doctrinal continuity over history would be based on just a few truths, such as:
1) There is one God the Father;
2) we are his children living in a fallen state;
3) His only begotten must sacrifice for our sins;
4) God speaks through prophets, answers prayers, and makes covenants;
5) priests and high priests administer specific cleansing ordinances, such as baptism;
6) special advanced doctrines teach “the way,” a returning to our Father;
7) obedience to revealed commandments yields happiness;
8) faith and priesthood are commanding powers;
9) we will be resurrected; and
10) there is a life eternal.
I cannot think of too many more central doctrines that have spanned the history of authorized prophets. Maybe you can think of some more.
Please note that there is a fair amount of latitude about how these principles become implemented into a religious practice, and that is my point. A modern Mormon hardly would recognize Church services in the 19th century. (See my past essay: "The Latter-day Church in the 19th Century"). How much more would we be confused by the religious services of Adam? Still, we would recognize strings of continuity, such as those items mentioned above.
BASIC MESSAGE: The core "doctrines in perpetuity" do not make up a large list. Believers in continuing revelation should also be believers in religious evolution. Things change. Humans change. Such is the nature of life.
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4 comments:
The fact that charity and forgiveness are not on your list is quite troubling! All the rest is secondary!
I would add "God the Son" and "God the Holy Ghost".
Also, like John Jacob identifies charity and forgiveness, I consider Agency an eternal doctrine. Without agency, a Savior would not be necessary. For that matter, the whole earth experience would be meaningless.
John Jacob:
Well, I said, "maybe you can think of more." But, I have a way out: Charity and forgiveness are covered in my capture-all clause: #6. Also, I would think #3 would cover your concern.
On the other hand, one might argue that there were periods in the Old Testament that did not emphasize charity and forgiveness very much. Just a thought.
But, just so you know I do believe in forgiveness, read: "After the Dogfight Forgiveness Heals."
Also, I have a hard time thinking "There is one God the Father" as being secondary. It seems primary to me.
Thanks for chiming in.
Glenn Smith:
"Agency" is a good thought. Has "agency" been taught all across the prophetic ages? It probably should have been, but I don't know. It hasn't always been taught clearly.
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