Christian Eternalism

Book excerpt: John A. Widtsoe said "The Gospel may be said to be 'The philosophy of Eternalism.' The Gospel is immersed in the ocean of eternity." Neal A. Maxwell said "Eternalism is defined as that view of man and the universe which not only acknowledges, but exults in, the existence of a Heavenly Father...Eternalism focuses on the individual and on those processes in which the individual is taught correct principles and then is given optimum opportunity to govern himself...For those who believe we are all going to be around forever, it is both natural and wise to concern ourselves with such questions and also with such principles which are also going to be around forever." These quotes involving the word "Eternalism" indicate a deep philosophical foundation underlying everything about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. This book describes some of the philosophical foundations of what Latter-day Saints call the Restoration. In the broadest sense, philosophy is concerned with mankind's relationship to existence, whereas theology is concerned with mankind's relationship to God. Both philosophy and theology are important to Latter-Day Saints because one's view of God is greatly influenced by one's view of reality. Eternalism then, in the broadest sense, is Latter-day Saint theology explained within a philosophically sound structure.