I personally don’t like talking about baptisms for the dead in terms of “becoming members of the Church”. Baptism in this life leads to membership in a church; I just don’t see it as having the same connotations in the hereafter. When someone accepts a proxy baptism, I don’t see them as joining a church; I see them as giving evidence of their acceptance of their Savior and His redemption.
Perhaps it's just me, but I believe churches are mortal organizations. I just don't see "churches" existing in Heaven.
Charmed
1 week ago
5 comments:
I would say there is a natural order existing in the next life to make the naming of any actual organization redundant. It would just exist within the already established bounds of the priesthood structure and eternal law. Without really knowing, that is what I would think. I can't really presume to know too much of anything about the great beyond, however, except the basics.
Interesting thoughts.
-Nate
Churches can't really exist in heaven, depending on one's definition of heaven.
I suppose the Telestial kingdom might have factions of thought.
I can't remember who/where, but I read a quote by a GA saying that the patriarchal order (= families and extended families) is the only "organization" that will exist in heaven.
This makes a lot of sense to me, if you look at what the Church exists to do:
- missionary work (no need for that in the Celestial Kingdom)
- lead the Kingdom on earth (Christ will take over that)
- administer saving ordinances (again, no further need)
- supplement teaching and support that should occur in the home (not necessary with perfected families)
The General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn exists in heaven. Cf. D&C 76, 88:3-5, 93:22, D&C 107:19, Hebrews 12:22-23.
Thanks, everyone, for your input. I like the way each of you phrased your comments.
Michael, fwiw, I read those passages much more figuratively than literally.
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