Questions and Answers
The idea that God created the spirit of man is believed by all learned men and doctors of divinity.
False
Joseph Smith believes that the mind or intelligence of man is co-eternal with God.
True
According to Joseph Smith, a man's intelligence has a beginning.
False
Joseph Smith claims that spirits of the deceased are completely separated from their earthly existence.
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Joseph Smith references the Hebrew text to support his views about the creation of man.
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The conference attended by Joseph Smith took place in April 1844 in Nauvoo, Illinois.
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Joseph Smith asserts that a man's spirit is created by God during his earthly life.
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In his speech, Joseph Smith indicates that the spirits exist in a place similar to the earth where they converse.
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The intelligence of spirits is eternal and has no beginning or end.
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The spirit of man is said to have a beginning and therefore also an end.
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A ring is used as a metaphor for the mind of man as it has a beginning and an end.
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It is suggested that God had the power to create the spirit of man.
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God has the ability to institute laws for the advancement of weaker intelligences.
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The principles of eternal life are claimed to be unpleasant and not well received.
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All spirits sent into the world are described as having the capability for expansion.
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The relationship with God hinders the advancement of knowledge.
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Study Notes
Joseph Smith's Conference Speech
- Delivered on April 7, 1844, at a Church conference in Nauvoo, Illinois.
- Account reconstructed from longhand notes by four individuals.
- Contextual backdrop of increasing hostility and danger leading to Prophet Smith's eventual death.
The Concept of the Immortal Spirit
- Smith discusses the soul, mind, and the immortal spirit of man, linked to the resurrection.
- Contradicts common beliefs that God directly created the spirit of man, asserting a different view of existence.
- Emphasizes that humanity exists co-eternally with God and not as a creation with a beginning.
Nature of Intelligence
- Claims the mind or intelligence of man is co-equal and co-eternal with God.
- Asserts the separation of the spirit from the body is temporary, allowing for continued existence in a spiritual realm.
Theological Reasoning
- Questions the logic of claiming that an immortal spirit could have a beginning.
- States that if spirits had a beginning, then they could also have an end, leading to annihilation, which he disputes.
Eternal Intelligence
- Argues that intelligence cannot be created; it is eternal and operates on self-existent principles.
- The act of God is described as instituting laws for weaker intelligences to progress in knowledge and glory.
Personal Experience and Revelation
- Smith expresses confidence in his testimony and teachings, claiming they are inspired revelations from Jesus Christ.
- Uses relatable metaphors (e.g., comparing the mind to a ring) to illustrate concepts of eternal existence and intelligence.
Principles of Eternal Life
- Promotes a philosophy of eternal progression and trust in divine laws as pathways to potential exaltation.
- Expresses joy in discussing doctrines that promote understanding of eternal life and knowledge, inviting listeners to share in this experience.
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Description
This quiz explores the significant talk given by Prophet Joseph Smith at the April 7, 1844 conference of the Church in Nauvoo, Illinois. The account is derived from longhand notes by four individuals and provides insight into the challenges faced by Smith shortly before his death. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and implications of this event.
