In a recent post published at the Life After Ministry blog, "Who is the LDS Heavenly Father's Father?" the contributing writer quotes Orson Pratt from the Seer, p. 132:
We were begotten by our Father in heaven; the person of our Father in Heaven was begotten on a previous heavenly world by His Father; and again, He was begotten by still a more ancient Father
Critics, like Life After Ministry, claim that Latter-day Saint theology endorses a doctrine of an "infinite regression of gods." The question is: Does Latter-day Saint doctrine present this idea based on interpretations of early teachings (such as Joseph Smith's King Follet Discourse) as official doctrine?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains an official declaration of the first article of faith. Given the nature of early leaders and how they may have interpreted certain statements - divine lineage, or infinite regression of Gods - we do well to separate the nature of speculative interpretations and understandings compared to official understanding and teachings respectively.
Despite this - scholars within the Latter-day Saint community focus more on understanding the idea of Monarchical Monotheism where God the Father presides over all other divine beings. In simple terms, monarchical monotheism reflects the nature of the divine council. This distinction is key to understanding and addressing the misconceptions our critics espouse.
Latter-day Saint Theology: Core Doctrines vs. Speculative Teachings
The theological framework of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints balances between clearly defined doctrines and speculative ideas advanced by early leaders. This balance has often been misunderstood, especially in discussions about complex teachings like eternal progression or divine nature. Distinguishing between binding doctrine and personal exploration is essential to clarify what the Church officially teaches versus what remains open to interpretation.
The Nature of Official LDS Doctrine
For Latter-day Saints, official doctrine is not everything ever taught by leaders or written in Church publications. Instead, it is found in the standard works (the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price), official statements from the First Presidency or the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and teachings consistently upheld and repeated over time.
Examples of core, binding doctrines include:
- The Atonement of Jesus Christ: Central to all teachings, emphasizing Christ’s role as Savior.
- The Plan of Salvation: God’s purpose for humanity, which outlines premortal life, mortal existence, and the potential for eternal life.
- The Godhead: Defined as three separate, distinct beings—God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—united in purpose.
Importantly, the Church avoids creeds or rigid interpretations, allowing doctrinal understanding to grow through continuing revelation. This dynamic approach can lead to misunderstandings when speculative teachings by individuals are mistakenly seen as official.
Orson Pratt and Speculative Writings in 'The Seer'
Orson Pratt, an early Church leader, contributed extensively to theological discussions, but his writings in The Seer (1853-1854) often veered into speculation. This periodical, written to defend practices like plural marriage, also delved into controversial doctrinal territory. For example, Pratt explored ideas about the nature of intelligence and the Godhead that later drew criticism from Church leadership.
Pratt’s speculative statements led Brigham Young and other leaders to distance the Church from parts of The Seer. In 1865, the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles formally disavowed certain doctrinal points he had espoused. This disavowal emphasized that while Pratt contributed significantly to Mormon theology, his personal interpretations were not binding on the Church.
This disagreement highlights an important point: not all writings by Church leaders represent official doctrine. Speculative exploration was common during the Church's early years as leaders sought to understand and communicate emerging revelations. Yet over time, the Church has refined its doctrinal focus, aligning it with what is revealed through prophetic authority.
Addressing Misinterpretations of LDS Beliefs
The conversation around infinite regression and its role in Latter-day Saint theology is often surrounded by layers of misunderstanding. Critics frequently claim that LDS theology supports a boundless chain of divine beings, using this as evidence against the faith's coherence. However, these critiques overlook the speculative nature of certain teachings and the evolving discussions within Mormon scholarship. Let’s break this down for clarity.
Infinite Regression as Speculation, Not Doctrine
Infinite regression—the idea of an endless chain of divine fathers—presents itself as a point of contention in discussions about LDS theology. However, what often gets lost in these debates is the speculative nature of this concept in Mormon belief. The idea stems from teachings like Joseph Smith's King Follett Discourse, where he mentioned, “As man now is, God once was.” While this has been interpreted by some as suggesting a genealogy of gods, it’s important to note that the Church has never codified this into doctrine.
LDS teachings focus more on eternal progression rather than providing a definitive answer about God's origins or a theoretical hierarchy of gods. This speculation is more of a theological exploration rather than a mandate for belief. Drawing definitive conclusions from non-official interpretations misses the broader intent of these teachings: to explore humanity’s potential for divinity.
Critics often conflate these speculative discussions with official doctrine. However, key LDS leaders, including President Gordon B. Hinckley, have described such ideas as “not fully understood” and not central to worship or everyday faith. Rather than dwelling on infinite regression, the Church emphasizes principles like faith in Christ, the Atonement, and the Plan of Salvation.
The Role of Monarchical Monotheism in LDS Thought
An alternative perspective that has sparked significant interest within LDS scholarship is Blake Ostler’s concept of Monarchical Monotheism. Ostler proposes that Joseph Smith’s teachings better align with a model where God the Father is the supreme authority presiding over a council of subordinate divine beings. This view draws heavily on scriptural traditions from the Old Testament and Second Temple Judaism, where a “council of the gods” is often referenced (e.g., Psalms 82:1).
Monarchical Monotheism challenges the assumption of infinite regression by positing one eternal, uncreated God who presides over all other divine beings. In this model, God the Father operates as the "Most High," while all other gods are His creations and operate in unity under His direction. Ostler's framework helps reconcile LDS theology with broader Christian and Jewish interpretations, providing a more structured understanding of the divine hierarchy.
This perspective also connects with ancient religious thought, situating LDS theology within a historical context. It offers a coherent structure that addresses criticisms of infinite chains of beings while emphasizing the sovereignty and eternal nature of God the Father. For many, this approach allows a richer, more harmonious interpretation of Joseph Smith’s teachings without diverging into speculative territory.
Unity Among Divine Beings in LDS Theology
One consistent theme in LDS teachings is the unity of divine beings. Within the Godhead—comprising God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—there is total harmony in purpose, love, and action. This unity is key to refuting the idea that a hierarchy of divine beings would lead to conflict or chaos.
Critics who argue that multiple divine beings undermine God’s sovereignty misunderstand the LDS perspective. Divine beings in Mormon theology are not rivals; they are united in their goal of furthering God’s eternal plan for His children. The Godhead exemplifies this perfectly. As distinct, individual beings, they remain completely aligned in their will and purpose, reflecting what Latter-day Saints call "oneness."
This concept of unity extends to humanity’s relationship with God. Through exaltation, individuals are invited to join this divine unity—not as equals to God the Father but as participants in His eternal work. Far from diluting God’s sovereignty, this framework magnifies His glory by showing how His love and grace enable others to grow and progress eternally.
Put simply, the LDS view of a united divine council highlights collaboration and harmony rather than hierarchy and division. This unity stands in stark contrast to criticisms that portray divine beings as competing powers. Instead, it emphasizes a grand, eternal partnership guided by God the Father, the Supreme Being.
Ultimately, this unshakeable unity among divine beings underscores the LDS belief in an eternal God who presides over all creation with love and purpose.
Scriptural Foundations and Theological Clarifications
Responding to the question posed by Life After Ministry, “Who is the LDS Heavenly Father's Father?” offers an opportunity to explore foundational teachings and clarify misunderstandings. Central to addressing this subject is a deeper dive into the scriptural basis and theological nuances of Latter-day Saint beliefs regarding the nature of God, His relationship with humanity, and the concept of eternal progression. Let’s break this down into key components.
Joseph Smith’s Revelation on the Eternal God
One of Joseph Smith’s most profound contributions to Latter-day Saint theology was his revelation of God as the Eternal Father of humanity. Far from presenting a mere hierarchy of divine beings, Smith emphasized God’s accessibility and His eternal, unchanging love for His children. In his King Follett Discourse, Joseph declared, “God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man.” This statement, often misunderstood, serves not to diminish God’s sovereignty but to underscore the closeness He shares with His children.
Smith’s teaching highlights that Heavenly Father achieved divine perfection through experiences and now exists as the Eternal Father, eternally presiding over His creations. For Latter-day Saints, this understanding does not de-emphasize God’s divine authority. Instead, it magnifies it by illustrating a Heavenly Father who intimately understands the journey of His children because He truly walked it Himself—making Him the perfect guide and advocate.
This concept counters the “infinite regression” argument often directed at LDS theology. While some may interpret these teachings as suggesting an endless line of divine fathers, Smith’s focus was not on the origins of God but the eternal relationship between Heavenly Father and humanity. Through this lens, Joseph Smith’s restoration clarified that God’s overarching role is one of an eternal protector and creator, deeply invested in the lives and eternal destinies of His children.
Pedestrian Eisegesis and Bearing False Witness
The contributing writer at Life After Ministry states quotes 2 Timothy 3:2-5 and then comments:
The biblical passage above is what happens to the Mormon people who choose to believe the teachings of this “One and Only True Church on the Face of the Earth”.
They have a form of godliness, but hate the body of Christ, not to mention God Himself. It’s a vicious cycle when you believe all the lies of Mormonism. God has a father who has a father who has a father and so on.
It begs the question - is what the Apostle Paul writing here describing Latter-day Saints? Or is the writer at Life After Ministry engaging in eisegesis interpretation and making a false claim?
Exegetical Commentary on 2 Timothy 3:2-5
The accusation that Latter-day Saints exemplify the characteristics described in 2 Timothy 3:2-5 is a misapplication of scripture. This passage warns against selfishness, pride, and a lack of godliness. Far from denying "the power thereof," Latter-day Saints affirm the power of godliness through ordinances such as baptism, priesthood blessings, and temple worship, all of which reflect their commitment to Christ and His gospel.
The assertion that Latter-day Saints "hate the body of Christ" misrepresents their beliefs. Members of the Church affirm that Jesus Christ is the Savior and Redeemer and seek to follow His teachings. They also affirm the Biblical truths found in 1 Corinthians 1:9, John 3:16, and 1 John 4:19, believing that God desires fellowship, salvation, and love for all His children.
Questioning One's Assurance and Salvation
Life After Ministry makes an additional error in questioning whether or not Latter-day Saints have an assurance of faith regarding salvation. They write:
I’ve never met a Mormon who knows with certainty that they’re saved and will go to heaven. Their works may not ever be enough, and this uncertainty comes from not having truth.
What kind of life is that to live? God didn’t create us so that we can worry ourselves to death!
This perspective seems subjective and overgeneralized. It also seems to show certain bias and prejudice towards a narrow-minded view that salvation is only assured based on how one assumes what truth is.
The writer goes on and cites 1 Corinthians 1:9, John 3:16, and 1 John 4:19. They also cite Ephesians 4:5-6 and begs the question: How much more does a man need? They conclude that if the doctrine of infinite regress is correct then how is it that there is no additional information about the numerous gods? This statement shows a lack of understanding regarding Biblical Scholarship related to the nature of the Divine Council and modern scholarship discussions related to the topic of the infinite regression of Gods.
Exegetical Commentary on Key Scriptures
- 1 Corinthians 1:9: "God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord."
- Latter-day Saints embrace this scripture, affirming that God is faithful and that fellowship with Christ is central to their worship. The Church emphasizes covenant relationships that bind individuals to God through Christ.
- John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son..."
- This is a foundational verse for Latter-day Saints, who affirm that God’s love is manifested in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The plan of salvation hinges on this divine gift.
- 1 John 4:19: "We love him, because he first loved us."
- This principle underpins Latter-day Saint teachings about charity, service, and discipleship. Love for God is reciprocated through loving others and keeping His commandments.
- Ephesians 4:5-6: "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all."
- Latter-day Saints interpret this as a unifying call to worship the one true God, the Father of all. The First Article of Faith echoes this: "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost."
Addressing Strawman Arguments and Logical Fallacies
The Life After Ministry article builds a strawman by misrepresenting Latter-day Saint beliefs. By cherry-picking speculative quotes like those from Orson Pratt and ignoring official Church doctrine, it creates a distorted portrayal. Additionally, the article begs the question by presuming the falsity of LDS teachings without addressing their theological depth.
Latter-day Saints do not claim exhaustive knowledge of God’s nature but rely on ongoing revelation, emphasizing faith and discipleship. Assertions about "never meeting a Mormon who knows they’re saved" fail to account for the nuanced LDS understanding of grace, works, and hope in Christ.
Biblical Support for God’s Eternal Love and Sovereignty
Critics often overlook how LDS teachings align with Biblical doctrine. A clear scriptural anchor is found in passages like John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son…” This verse underscores God’s role as the eternal, sovereign Father whose love transcends comprehension. It reflects the LDS view of a Heavenly Father who operates from infinite love, guiding His children toward exaltation.
Additionally, Ephesians 4:5-6 states, “One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” These words affirm God’s absolute sovereignty and unity within the divine framework. For Latter-day Saints, this reinforces the Monarchical Monotheism perspective, where God the Father reigns above all as the supreme authority without the confusion of competing or subordinate gods.
In this theological framework, the unity and purpose within the Godhead—the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost—serve as the ultimate example of divine oneness. Latter-day Saints view this unity as a model for humanity, symbolizing the harmonious relationship we are invited to share with God through Christ’s grace.
When placed in context, Joseph Smith’s teachings and LDS scripture advance a clear and coherent understanding of God’s eternal role. They emphasize His unchanging nature, His unending love, and His sovereign guidance over all creation, countering claims that LDS theology diminishes God’s preeminence.
The Plan of Salvation and Human Exaltation
The Plan of Salvation, a cornerstone of LDS theology, intricately ties into the question of God’s role and human potential. Latter-day Saints believe this plan is evidence of God’s eternal love, having designed a path for His children to achieve exaltation. Within this framework lies the teaching of eternal progression: humanity’s ability to grow and develop to become like God.
The idea of eternal progression often draws from scripture such as John 17:3, where Jesus states, “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” As children of an Eternal Father, knowing God is not just an intellectual exercise but a lifelong—and eternal—journey. God’s plan allows His children to grow “from grace to grace,” progressing spiritually and eternally under His guidance.
This belief aligns with the broader teachings found in the Bible. Passages like Romans 8:16-17—“The Spirit itself beareth witness… that we are children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ”—highlight humanity’s potential to inherit all that the Father has. For Latter-day Saints, this inheritance includes the opportunity to become “joint-heirs” with Christ, participating with God in His eternal work.
Contrary to critics’ claims, the doctrine of eternal progression does not suggest competition or equality with God the Father. Instead, it speaks to His generosity and willingness to lift humanity to greater heights. Just as we see a parent rejoice in a child’s achievements, our Heavenly Father’s plan is a testament to His unending desire for us to share in His glory—not to replace Him, but to join Him in eternal unity.
Through the Plan of Salvation, Latter-day Saints see not just a roadmap for personal growth but a sign of God’s unwavering love and sovereignty. His role as Father remains at the center of this journey, affirming His divine authority while inviting His children to become co-participants in eternal joy.
This scriptural and theological foundation strengthens the understanding of Latter-day Saint beliefs. It clarifies that far from being speculative, the teachings about God’s eternal nature and humanity’s divine potential are deeply rooted in both Biblical principles and the revelations of Joseph Smith.
Logical Fallacies and Misrepresentations in Criticisms
Critics of Latter-day Saint theology often use logical fallacies and misrepresentations to undermine the faith's teachings. Addressing these flawed arguments is critical in engaging with critiques like Life After Ministry's post, "Who Is the LDS Heavenly Father's Father?" Through closer examination, we see that many of these arguments rely on outdated assumptions and selective interpretations rather than a fair representation of LDS beliefs.
Refuting the Strawman of Conflicting Deities
One common critique directed at Latter-day Saints involves the notion of multiple gods leading to chaos or rivalry among divine beings. Critics frame this as a logical breakdown, arguing that an infinite regression of gods implies competing sovereignties, which would destabilize divine governance. However, this misrepresentation ignores a fundamental principle in LDS theology: unity.
In LDS thought, divine beings are entirely united in love, purpose, and action. The Godhead—consisting of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—functions in perfect harmony. Critics who portray this as polytheistic chaos often resort to strawman arguments, cherry-picking quotes while dismissing the core LDS doctrine of oneness. The Father is not displaced by other deities but remains sovereign, presiding as the "Most High" in a way that aligns with Monarchical Monotheism.
Think of it this way: If you’re part of a well-orchestrated band, the conductor’s role ensures unison. No musician seeks to overthrow the conductor—they play collaboratively. Similarly, in LDS theology, divine beings do not compete but act as one, reinforcing rather than threatening God’s ultimate authority.
This strawman argument thrives on misunderstanding divine unity within LDS teachings. Critics mistakenly use finite human frameworks to interpret infinite relationships, which fail to capture the spiritual harmony that is foundational to this theology.
Clarifying the Nuanced LDS View of Grace and Works
Evangelical critiques often assert that Latter-day Saints reject grace in favor of works—as if the two concepts oppose each other. However, LDS theology embraces the necessity of grace while acknowledging the importance of works within God’s plan.
The relationship between grace and works in LDS teachings can be likened to that of planting a garden. Grace, represented as sunlight and rain, is essential—no amount of effort can replace it. Yet, without preparation, planting seeds, and nurturing the soil (symbolizing works), the garden won’t grow. Faith without action is lifeless. The interplay between grace and works isn't contradictory but complementary, with each part vital for spiritual growth.
Critics often oversimplify this concept, portraying Latter-day Saints as trying to "earn" salvation. This characterization overlooks key LDS scriptures, such as 2 Nephi 25:23, which states, "It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do." The emphasis here is not on perfectionism but rather on striving. Grace enables what works cannot achieve, yet effort reflects sincerity in following Christ’s teachings.
Such critiques also ignore Biblical precedent. In James 2:17, it’s written, “Faith, if it hath not works, is dead.” Latter-day Saints draw on this balance, emphasizing that works are not a substitution for grace but a demonstration of faith in action. Misrepresenting this relationship—as critics like Life After Ministry often do—ignores the rich scriptural foundation and harmonious belief system at the core of LDS theology.
By addressing these misrepresentations of grace and works, we see a clearer picture of a faith that seamlessly blends divine help with human effort, paving the way for both progression and reliance on Christ's atonement.
Conclusion
Critiques like Life After Ministry's post often dwell on speculative interpretations of early LDS teachings, particularly the concept of infinite regression. However, these criticisms frequently misrepresent or oversimplify the nuanced and evolving nature of Latter-day Saint theology.
Central to LDS belief is not an uncontrollable chain of gods but a loving, sovereign Heavenly Father who presides supremely over all creation. The idea of Monarchical Monotheism, supported by scriptural and historical context, provides a coherent framework that aligns God's sovereignty with a divine council, further reinforcing unity and purpose within the Godhead.
Rather than being distracted by speculative debates, the focus should remain on core doctrines: eternal progression, Christ’s atoning grace, and the profound potential for humanity to become co-heirs with God. Thoughtful discussions grounded in understanding and respect can foster deeper appreciation for the beauty and depth of LDS teachings. Let us engage in such conversations with clarity, respect, and a desire for truth.
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