Understanding the Plan of Salvation
Today’s inspiration is drawn from Lesson 2: The Plan of Salvation, as outlined in Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service. This lesson offers profound insights into life’s biggest questions: Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going? It explores God’s purpose for us, the significance of Jesus Christ, and how we can achieve true happiness and eternal life.
Premortal Life: God’s Purpose and Plan for Us
Before we were born on earth, we lived as spirit children with our Heavenly Father. We are literally His children, and He loves us deeply. Our existence didn’t begin at birth nor will it end at death. God has a plan for us, often referred to as the plan of happiness or the plan of salvation. This plan is designed to help us become like Him and enjoy all His blessings.
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The Creation
Under God’s direction, Jesus Christ created the earth as a place for us to gain experience and grow. This world was designed to be a testing ground where we could receive physical bodies, face challenges, and learn to choose between good and evil. This life is a critical part of our eternal journey.
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Agency and the Fall of Adam and Eve
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is agency, or the ability to choose. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve used their agency to partake of the forbidden fruit, leading to the Fall. This act brought mortality, physical death, and the ability to experience joy and sorrow. It was an essential step in God’s plan, making it possible for us to have families and learn from our experiences.
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Our Life on Earth
Our time on earth is a period of learning and growth. We experience both joy and suffering, which help us develop and prepare to return to God’s presence. However, because of our imperfections and sins, we need help to overcome spiritual death, which is separation from God.
The Atonement of Jesus Christ
Central to the plan of salvation is the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to earth, lived a sinless life, and willingly suffered for our sins. His Atonement includes His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and His crucifixion. Through His Atonement, we can be forgiven of our sins and overcome both physical and spiritual death. This ultimate act of love and sacrifice makes it possible for us to return to our Heavenly Father.
The Spirit World
After death, our spirits enter the spirit world, where we await the resurrection. In the spirit world, those who did not have the opportunity to hear or accept the gospel of Jesus Christ in this life are taught and can choose to accept it. This period allows continued growth and learning until the final judgment.
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The Resurrection, Salvation, and Exaltation
Because of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection, we will all be resurrected, receiving perfect, immortal bodies. After the resurrection, we will stand before God to be judged according to our actions and desires. The ultimate goal of God’s plan is for us to achieve exaltation, which means living with Him forever in eternal happiness.
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Judgment and Kingdoms of Glory Based on our choices and adherence to God’s commandments, we will be assigned to one of the kingdoms of glory:
Celestial Kingdom: Reserved for those who have fully accepted and lived the gospel of Jesus Christ. This kingdom is compared to the brightness of the sun.
Terrestrial Kingdom: For those who lived honorable lives but did not fully accept the gospel. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the moon.
Telestial Kingdom: For those who did not repent or accept the gospel in either life or the spirit world. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the stars.
The plan of salvation provides a roadmap for our eternal journey. It teaches us about our divine origins, the purpose of our life on earth, and our potential to return to our Heavenly Father. It emphasizes the essential role of Jesus Christ and His Atonement in overcoming sin and death.
We invite you to ponder these teachings and consider how they apply to your life. Reflect on the purpose of your existence and the infinite love that God has for you. As you seek to understand and live according to this plan, you will find greater peace, joy, and purpose.
In a world often filled with confusion and challenges, understanding God’s plan for us can bring clarity and direction. We encourage you to explore these principles further, seek answers through prayer, and study the scriptures. By doing so, you can find the strength to face life’s trials and the wisdom to make choices that align with your eternal goals.
Moreover, let this understanding inspire you to make a positive impact in the world. Share this message of hope and love with others, and strive to live a life of service and kindness. Together, we can help create a world that reflects the love and peace that God desires for all His children.
May you find comfort and guidance in the plan of salvation and feel motivated to make the world a better place. Link to Original: Lesson 2: The Plan of Salvation
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