Part 1 of 3 – by Eric Smith
One of the most effective teaching tools for me comes through contrasts. While young, we learn hot from cold, day from night, kindness from cruelty, and so on. Without these contrasting experiences and emotions, we would not have experience and could not really gain knowledge or wisdom. Adam and Eve could not know good from evil without partaking of both, which is perhaps the first example of this idea.
After Moses had a face to face conversation with God, he had a personal encounter with Lucifer. Having experienced the intense glory of God’s presence which left him fallen to the ground, he was able to declare to Lucifer, “where is thy glory, that I should worship thee? For behold, I could not look upon God, except his glory should come upon me, and I were transfigured before him. But I can look upon thee in the natural man. Is it not so, surely?” (Moses 1). The dramatic change from light to dark in so short a time clearly left an impression on Moses.
Contrasting Doctrine
Over the past few years it has been my privilege, as well as many who I know, to have naturally and individually come upon the doctrine recently called Multiple Probations. Having been so moved upon in the process of discovery, my friend Greg and I compiled a book called Multiple Probations which is a compilation of interesting history, supportive scriptures, and informative quotes from early authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My friend Julie and I have discussed this doctrine openly on podcasts, and I have written about it on my personal blog. Like Lehi who partook of the fruit of the tree of life and who immediately wanted to share it with his family, the fruits of the doctrine have been delicious to me, and I have also wanted to share it.
To my sadness, and repulsion, I have recently seen how this doctrine has been turned into something very different than what has been made known to me. As with Moses, the stark contrast in dark and light leaves no mistake in my mind as to who the authors of the two variations are. As the recent version of the doctrine has been aired publicly, I am concerned that too many are now throwing the baby out with the bathwater in what has been deemed a “dangerous doctrine”. That phrase indeed feels appropriate for the version of the doctrine that has circulated these recent events.
Unfortunately, the divine version of the doctrine has not, and may not soon receive the proper attention and audience it deserves. Never at any time in my research and doctrinal interests have zombies, adultery, and murder ever remotely crossed my mind.
Some are asking why this doctrine is necessary. As many have never considered the possibility of living multiple lives, many are judging the idea as crazy or ridiculous. I do not condemn those who feel this way. For many it is hard to accept ideas that have not been touted over pulpits or publicized over the airways and fiber lines of our media sources. Others feel if it were true, it should only come through certain lines of authority.
While I may not be able to answer these and other questions, I know the doctrine has come to me, and indeed to many hundreds (if not thousands) of people I have personally heard from in emails, within the LDS church. It also appears to be welcomed and seriously considered among others of various sects of Christianity as a true and practical doctrine, as evidenced by the content of Christian film producers in recent years.
It is as though our Asian brothers and sisters who comprise the greater majority of the world’s population have patiently been waiting for thousands of years for this day when Christians would awaken to the doctrine of multiple lives, which to me is practical and actually very simplistic in nature. While I do not consider reincarnation to be true, it is clearly an alteration of what seems to be the once purer doctrine taught long ago.
While belief in this doctrine is unpopular in the Christian world at this time, I would like to share some of the ways it has been a blessing to me. I do so realizing it could be the very thing that causes estrangement from my family, friends, and my church. Come what may; I believe what I believe, and if a man’s belief, though strange, is cause for punishment or ridicule from anyone, which is the greater sin?
When I was young, I was given a true, but what I now consider to be an incomplete version of the Plan of Salvation by my faith. The idea that a person would live their life on earth and then be permanently assigned to a kingdom of glory, whether Telestial, Terrestrial, or Celestial, felt very final[i]. The thought that there could be no progression after judgment felt to contrast the merciful God of second chances I have since come to know and believe in.
What seems to be missing is the escape clause to such a definitive end. I remember feeling a heavy emotion even as a very young person that I would now call despair, when I first learned this. Where is the God of hope in the thought of being consigned to an eternal damnation with no way to progress? Only through a Multiple Probation lens can the mercy portion of the Plan of Salvation be realized, as those who choose to ascend to higher kingdoms may receive such an opportunity by going back down in a veiled environment to continue their development and progress as a son or daughter of heavenly parents.
This process answers many other gospel centered questions. The way Christ had already advanced to Godhood in premortality, and the associated true definition of condescension; the way Lucifer had become advanced in his power and priesthoods before becoming a ‘fallen angel’. It explains how many in the premortal council of heaven had become ‘noble and great’ (Abraham 3:22). It gives context for the possibility that aborted and miscarried babies, or even inexperienced humans who leave the world prematurely can still have a shot at life and prove themselves (Abraham 3:25).
It is the explanation for why some of those I know and love are so advanced in their abilities and gifts from birth, such as music, art, speaking, writing, arithmetic, or who have spiritual gifts such as being visionary, who can discern spirits, or who possess extraordinary compassion, like my sweet wife. I view these gifts largely to be the result of mortal experience, rather than only from a spiritually genetic disposition to be so.
For some of us, the doctrine came along at a time we had deep questions about the eternities and the knowledge satisfied our questions peacefully and sweetly. For some of us, the knowledge of who we have been in the past has fueled our desire to serve God more diligently, and to fight against the adversary with greater fervor. For others, it has given meaning and clarity to the many dreams, visions, memories, and Deja vu experiences that have troubled them throughout their lives. Knowing what the Lord has trusted me to do for Him in the past is a great motivator for similarly serving Him in the future. There is a humbling reward in the sense of Father’s confidence in me, despite my human weakness.
Some have accused those who believe this doctrine as seeking to be better than others or have suggested that even if it were a true principle, it is not important to know. I agree, in part. I have learned for myself that this doctrine is in fact, not necessary to know for my salvation, but it is necessary to know in the context of my exaltation. I do not hold a grudge against anyone who does not believe, or who does not want to know more about the doctrine, but it is important to me.
As I have sought to understand my past before this life, and as insights and spiritual impressions have come, I have not wanted to share the specifics with others. I hold the knowledge sacred, personal to my own covenant path, and between my Father in Heaven and me. The thought of using this knowledge for personal advantage is repulsive and would be a mockery of what I consider to be a blessed gift from God.
Some may ask why I or anyone else have been privileged to learn of these doctrines while others have not. I can only answer that through study, prayer, fasting, and a fair amount of grief, I have paid the price to know. I have followed the council of James, that if there are any among us who lack wisdom, that we should ask of God who gives to all men liberally (James 1:5). Or as Moroni declared, “By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:5). I have done as the Savior Himself declared to “ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you” (Luke 11:9). I am a witness that these promises are true.
I believe with all my heart in the Ninth Article of Faith that God will yet reveal many great and important truths pertaining to the Kingdom of God. What, when, and to whom those truths could come was left open-ended.
Thank you for reading this essay. We invite you to share this with all those you know who might benefit from it. Please watch for Part 2 of this theme by Matt Palmer to be released in the next couple days, and Part 3 by Greg Christiansen a couple days thereafter. Please consider subscribing in order to receive these updates. Email from me is very sparse.
Footnote:
[i] Most Christians believe in the binary afterlife of heaven or hell. The LDS church teaches the Pauline principle of many degrees in heaven. See 1 Corinthians 15:40-44
Thanks, as always, this is very well thought out and written. These ideas make sense and just feel right to me.
I’m glad you feel that way Kendall. Thank you for taking the time to read this and comment!
Wow. Thanks for sharing! I’ve wondered about past lives. Some parts of it make sense, but I’ve never wanted to think too deeply about it because it made me feel such sadness to think I would be reborn somewhere else and lose my husband and kids, if they were to go somewhere else. Who do I end up with ultimately in the celestial kingdom? I’m sealed to my husband. I just don’t see how being promised we can be together forever, and being reborn in another life, and probably sealed to someone else fit together. ??? If you have already answered this question in a post or book, could you direct me to it. Thank you!!
And sorry you got excommunicated! Some awesome people have been excommunicated. People that I still feel the spirit about, so I have to pinch myself too, haha.
Erika, these are great questions. I’ve had them too, and feel I’ve received answers to them. I would comment but feel it is too sacred. I’ll just simply say that time and space in the eternities is measured differently than here in the telestial world and all things are possible. The answers are there if you seek them from the Lord and in His timing. Thanks for commenting
Thanks for responding!
I often commented in Church Sunday School, that, to be considered Noble and Great!! You had to have been proven, and earned this Title.
I was always looked at with the eyes of (Oh Brother). This understanding of Multiple Probation’s, has validated and set my soul free of the ignorance. I still struggle to understand my place in the eternity’s. But, I know this is absolutely true…And thank the Stalwart!! Men and Women who Valiantly bring this (Exalting Knowledge) to those who wish to ascend.
Kevin, I know that feeling! I learned long ago to stay quiet in Sunday school. I’m glad to see you’re getting your own comfort and witness of the doctrine!
Thank You Eric, Beautifully expressed! I have to be honest. When I first came upon the doctrine of multiple probations I said” There is “NO WAY” I wanted to live another life like the one I was living now not that it’s been horrible but very Hard. However the spirit worked upon me and I was reminded that my biggest question as a child was “Where did God come from?” I used to spend hours thinking about it even until my brain hurt. Now the doctrine of multiple probations brings me great peace. It answers many of my questions, How could a god (Lucifer) fall from grace, how could the Savior become who he was in one lifetime, how could I ever make it to the celestial kingdom if my partner wasn’t willing to live the gospel. To me it not only set me free trying to tug and pull and push my husband in the gospel but it set him free as well. I no longer depended on him to get us there. Agency took on a whole new meaning. I realized it was up to me to ask, seek, knock, learn and apply with or without him. Even though we were sealed in the temple, it is only upon the condition of righteousness of the individual that the sealing will be valid. I see and feel God’s mercy and love for his children in the doctrine. I like you, have had a sure witness even as I am writting this that it is true. God bless you for speaking truth.
Terri, when I first learned the doctrine I instantly knew of its truthfulness and then went into a pretty strong state of depression for some of the same reasons you’ve mentioned. It lasted several weeks. Thanks for sharing your own experience, which is validating and comforting to know the Lord is answering many of His children’s questions!
Thank you for the clarity you’re bringing to this doctrine. I love that you point our how the Ninth Article of Faith apples to all who earnestly and humbly seek the truth, and not for just a select few. The “treasures and hidden treasures of knowledge” are real.
I’ll be looking forward to hearing more!!!
Thank you for taking the time Emily
God bless you, brother! I too grew up knowing that Reincarnation was/ is a false doctrine, but also grew up in a culture that taught that those who made mistakes – and took their guilt from said mistakes to their grave – without repentance or forgiveness were eternally assigned to a lower Kingdom of Glory, only to be visited by friends and family members in higher kingdoms.
Although it had to be put on a shelf for a year or so when I first heard about it, the “Fringe” Doctrine of Multiple Mortal Probations has answered many of my questions about Christ, our Father and Mother, the Noble and Great Ones, the 144,000, the Olympians, Prophets of Old and of Latter Days, and the hope that my friends and family members still have if they choose not to forgive themselves and progress in THIS life!
I’m so grateful for you, Greg, Matt and Julie for your conviction and witnesses of the Truth! Love you all!
Carston, your witness Of these things strengthens my own. Thank you for bravely sharing it here in this public forum.
Well done, Eric. You are obviously gifted and inspired by God. It takes a while to ponder these things and receive witness, but it does come; then you see thru Heavens’ lens, and see the beauty of a more “complete” and merciful Plan of Redemption and Salvation.
You know Eric its interesting to me how much i have loved James Allen for so many years and how you were also inspired by him. Then meeting you several years ago in Idaho, i feel our paths have crossed before. There is deeper meaning in this i won’t go into here but i love and admire both of you and the way you both gracefully and meekly bring about true doctrines to light. I truly appreciate your time and great efforts in doctrinal essays and your wonderful books. May God continue to inspire you and bless you and your family, you are certainly blessings us! Praise God and Praise the Lord! My heart is full ❤🙏🙏🙏❤
Thank you for visiting and commenting Anna. To be associated with James Allen is an honor for me. That’s kind of you to say. I admire your truth seeking and truth-recognizing abilities.
I converted to the church in my early twenties when i received a witness of the book of mormon and of Joseph Smith. This was after a lifetime of belonging to many Christian denominations and the fruits of the plan of salvation were very sweet to me even though i was raised by some in my family to detest the Lds faith and to not believe in Joseph.. as time went on and I progressed in knowledge AND my own spiritual gifts I began to thirst for things I knew must be missing, such as where was the idea of grace? How did we live in the pre mortal realms and agree to a plan to come here where we only had one shot to get it right? Knowing myself well enough to know that I would never have agreed to such a thing knowing my own weaknesses all too well..and having been able to learn from on high many amazing things in temple service..i began to question the plan as it was being taught every sunday..my questions as a spiritually gifted woman were met mostly with disdain amidst the patriarchy and toxic perfectionism of many members through no fault of their own but through false Traditions that have been passed down and incomplete doctrines. I began to see and feel clearly that my agency was being squashed and that their was almost a secret society within the church of people who felt similar but were too afraid to speak up. I am eternally grateful for all of the doctrines that you and Julie and others you work with have been brave enough to bring forward to those of us who were so very ready to embrace higher truths through the spirit..Lucifer continues to whisper to me that I am a nobody, and why out of all the people on the earth would I be privileged to have knowledge that only a few believe and have currently? He try’s to plant these seeds of doubt in my heart mind and spirit..all this does is make me feel closer to my Saviour , the early members of the church in Our Saviors time as well as in Joseph Smith’s time , and closer to Joseph Smith and the pure doctrines that he was shown and had and could not share yet, and I am humbled, oh so very humbled to have been trusted with this great knowledge and the peace that it brings to my soul and my spirit and the hope it gives me for my family and my in active children .. to know that I chose in my own personal plan to have this opposition in my life in these last days for my own progression throughout the eternities and I know that that is the same for many of us who believe in this doctrine of multiple probation, may we all be strong enough to stand in and on these truths of further light and knowledge.
Elena, I hope you feel the sincerity of my heart when I say, I hear you! I love converts, and you have reminded me that the convert enthusiasm for new truth should never die in our hearts, like Nephi‘s song of redeeming love, and if it does die, then we have indeed stopped growing! Thank you so much for sharing your story! May the Lord bless you!
Elena, thank you for sharing your experience. Though I was a member of the church since I was young, I can relate to your experience. I am viewed as someone who dares to imply that I have had experiences and spiritual gifts other than just being led by the spirit through thoughts and ideas. I’ve learned to not voice my experiences at church as well. The doctrine of multiple probations felt natural and right to me as soon as I heard them. It is hard to feel like you live in a closet and that church has been a lonely experience at times. Hearing experiences like your’s along with Eric’s and Julie’s really helps me. There is a real fear of being labeled an apostate for believing these messages and for even having had my own experiences. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you Eric…for putting what I know to be true into words. Ever since first hearing the doctrine of Multiple Mortal Probations, I have felt peace in this knowledge. It is particularly comforting to realize that I can let go of the worry and anxiety of wayward children who have struggled to stay on the path, that this doctrine provides the hope that there is plenty of time, if they choose…to move forward in their ( or my own) progression. We also know that there is an opposite to all things. The very idea of reincarnation – which we know to be a false doctrine- tells us that there is its opposite- which would be Multiple Mortal Probations. Thank you again for your testimony and to stand boldly for truth.
Thank you Kim. Your peaceful witness strengthens my own. I like your point about second chances for wayward souls. It reminds me again of God’s ever extended arm of mercy.
Kim, that is a very insightful point that would seem to be a witness Of truth hidden in plain sight that if reincarnation is a false doctrine, that there must be an opposite, which I feel my spirit was first introduce to in the temple. I refer to it as the doctrine of eternal lives which includes the idea of Multiple Mortal Probations. This doctrine tastes delicious to me, and I glory in my God for His omniscience and almighty power to bring about our salvation and exultation in wonder and mysterious ways.
Heather, I love that name for it. Thanks for sharing your witness.
Thank you Eric!
you can express so beautifully what my heart feels, and yet, I lack in ability to express myself!
May I share my own experience that has allowed me to know and discern truth of such doctrine as MMP.
My second Temple Marriage was to a man who had spiritual gifts, such as seeing, hearing, and speaking to those beyond the veil. He claimed, like so many others to have had an out-of-body experience.
I was drawn to him because of these gifts that he freely shared with me. Anyways, it soon became apparent that his fruits were not matching what I knew to be honest and true from my own scripture study, and beliefs.
There were many things we did together as a couple and also individually that were in error of the doctrine’s of God as I have come to understand today.
Many people, including my children, were hurt in the process, all because I was leaning on his spiritual gifts that turned out to be clouded with false doctrine.
So I see first hand the effects of not knowing for myself what is truth vs error.
At one point I had to stop believing any thing he said to me of a spiritual nature and this set me on my path to get my own inspiration of the true doctrine.
That marriage ended in divorce and left me and others in a lot of pain and devastation as to discernment of truth and error, light and darkness, in such gifts.
It taught me that accepting such information and experiences with out, knowing for my self (James 1:5) was and is a danger zone for me to be in.
When I first came upon Julie’s podcasts and heard the messages, including MMP.
I could discern truth because I have long since done what you and Julie ask us to do almost every podcast. “take it to the Lord and get your own answers.”
Because I do just that I have grown closer to the Savior and because I study scripture, I have more enlightenment and understanding of truth. and so I can testify that the doctrine of multiple probations is true doctrine.
And like those, here, before me have mentioned, this doctrine has brought more clarity, understanding of why I went through my own experiences in this probation.
I can testify if one puts their effort into their relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus first, (who are one God) And accept the Saviors Atonement by putting the effort into repenting and forgiving. One can know truth from error.
I love you all and am thankful for the puzzle piece of truth each of you has to offer in my journey. I thank you!
I love our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and I know He loves me.
Pamee, you have a wonderful heart and testimony. Thank you for sharing this.
Eric,
Many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in my belief are afraid of these lost doctrines especially when they are exposed to it from news agencies that are trying to (in my opinion) to make people fear that if it doesn’t come directly from the president or prophet of the church then we are being led away by false prophets. I welcome it! It is time to live in faith not fear. It makes wonderful sense when you consider how merciful and how loving our Savior Jesus Christ is especially when we are gifted with agency both pre and post mortality.
Hi. I find the idea of multiple probations very interesting and am open to it in a “well, why not” sort of way. It is a fairly new idea to me but seems entirely plausible. I do have a question though. It has been referred to many times in this essay and the comments as “doctrine”. Can someone please give me some context for how this idea is considered doctrine? Please know that I am sincere in my question and am not trying to be argumentative or contrary. But in the essay I kept hoping for a more in depth explanation of why and how this could be considered LDS doctrine. Any comments would be helpful. Thanks!
That’s a great question, Diane, and an important thing to define. Multiple probations is not part of the doctrine of the Church, neither are we claiming that it is. I suppose our use of the term doctrine is meant to be somewhat generic. Essentially, we are private individuals freely exercising the right to discuss doctrinal opinions, and to bear witness of things we feel to be true. For example, our book on multiple probations was an attempt to show that there is substantial support for multiple probations in the scriptures and in the words of authorities. The purpose was not to claim that it is the doctrine of the Church, as we have no authority in that regard.
Greg has perfectly captured my thoughts and feelings as well. Thank you for raising this important point Diane. And thank you Greg.
Thank you, Gregory! This clarification is very helpful. I have so many follow up questions!! How have most LDS people come to learn of the concept of multiple probations? I know Julie Rowe has been a source for many. Is she the main source? How does this concept coexist with the idea of eternal families? Again, I hope my sincere curiosity is coming through. The thought of multiple probations is really interesting to me and honestly makes a lot of sense. But my mother died recently and the idea of her in another probation feels a bit heartbreaking. Do you believe sealing ordinances still exist? Perhaps I’m misunderstanding. I probably just need to read a book about it. 🙂 Thanks for responding!
Hi Diane! Great questions and important ones to ponder on. I don’t necessarily have all the answers there. I am not sure how most people have become exposed to this doctrine. I simply found that it merited investigation. As for the sealing question, I certainly believe that sealings are very important. Perhaps the trouble is we tend to think about such things linearly, rather than multidimensionally. Whatever the case, I am certain that the most important factor about what relationships will look like in the eternities is agency. We will be free to choose to be with those we love, who also want to be with us.
Thank you Eric. When I first heard this doctrine I felt a rush come over me that is hard to understand and explain. I was cautious at first with excitement, but, put it on a shelf. It felt right to me but the opposition was so strong and vociferous I proceeded with caution. When your book came out with Greg I was excited to read it and I did several times. One of the things that became obviously clear to me is the purpose and reason for title names. Why the title and what needs to happen to have that title. Multiple Probation’s answers that question. One of the questions that has bothered me since I was very young is: “How did it all start”? How can something start from nothing? I still don’t know, or even pretend to know, but I do know that some day I will know and it will make perfect sense to me. I have been a member of the church my entire life, and it has been my life. I have always know it to be true, the gospel of Jesus Christ, and have never doubted it, no, not even for a second. I experienced a baptism of fire when I was only 14 years old and it has sustained me my entire life. My only doubt was in me and the ability to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. When I have read the account where the church leaders during the Savior’s time were asking him if he were Jeremiah or some other great prophet, that never made sense to me until after reading your book, then it made perfect sense to me. That was a “Wow” moment! I believe in this doctrine and am excited to continue to receive further light and knowledge. Again, I thank you, Greg, Matt and Julie for having the courage to stand and to testify. I hope and pray I will have the same courage. Verlan
I love how this is turning into a string of testimonials. It’s like the chorus which follows the verse, giving the song power and unity.
Thank you for sharing. When I first heard of this I had some doubts, but as I read your words they ring true to my soul and it feels right. Thanks for your courage to share.
We have had two grandsons and a nephew commit suicide in their teens. Heavenly Father is very loving too help them through their next probation. We know this to be true ! We remembering reading that Joseph Smith knew so much more than he could tell because of disbelief and anger from others. What a great man and prophet he was. Thank you for putting our thoughts into words of deeper understanding.
How tragic! If you’ve not yet read Angie Fenimore’s book “Beyond the Darkness,” I highly recommend it. Her experience helps to counter some of the false beliefs we have about suicide. There is always hope in Christ.
Tonya, I didn’t know this about your family. I do hope this doctrine gives you and your family the hope you need. Much love to you
I first heard briefly the Doctrine of Multiple Probations from Julie Rowe on AVOW an LDS forum, the arguments that followed, all bothered me, I was at that time on my own journey. Then one early morning between 3-4am I was told by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ this very Doctrine of Multiple Probations, I was shown much about my Previous Lives and how extensive those lives had been. I met an individual who had seen me on one of those probationary Earth’s. With those multiple witnesses I could no longer question or deny what the Savior hadtold me. In the years since my witness of the Doctrine of Multiple Probations has increased considerably, I embrace it with eagerness. I understand the principle of Condensension and know of my involvement there. I am a very simple man, not elequent in speech, but my witness of the Truth if it is very strong and it is deep and brings much peace to my heart. My future has been laid out before me. I have felt the Cleansing power of Jesus Christ through His Atonement. I did not need to ask our Lord and Savior if what I heard was true, just as Joseph Smith seen God the Father and Jesus Christ and Could not deniy it, I stand as a witness of the same thruths declared.
Harold, your thoughts and perspective are priceless. Thank you
I have been pondoring over weather I should share this, by no means am I a visionary like Julie and many others but on December 7th 2018 my Dad passed away at 100 yrs and 4months, my father’s passing opened up a portal to a degree that allowed me to communicate in a small way with those in the Spirit Word, what transpired startled me at first but the experience lasted for weeks. What happened was that I would hear a name in my mind and immediately a person on the other side of the girl would introduce themselves and then they would thank me for helping them in their trialed, this was not for 1 probationary earth but many. Those Brothers and Sisters bore witness to me additionally of the Truth of multiple Probationary Earth’s, my witnesses are in the hundreds and I cannot deny them
Harold, thank you for sharing your special experience and witness
Mahalo for bringing this to light! Growing up in the Church, I had the same impressions as you regarding our exaltation. Something didnʻt feel complete and this connects so many pieces in my life, in my culture, and even in our Hawaiian legends of gods and goddesses. I know many people think this is false doctrine and I did put myself in their shoes to understand where they were coming from…I could see what they were trying to say, but the fruits werenʻt lining up. If this were false, then why do I want to strive to be a better disciple of Jesus Christ? Not once, has this doctrine pulled me away from the gospel, as many false prophets and their teachings aim to achieve. This helps restore pieces…and so the restoration continues! Mahalo for your light, your love for truth, and your love for us all!
Kalai, mahalo for visiting and sharing your views. I love your island perspective, which I hadn’t considered.
aloha wau iā ‘oe, Have a blessed sabbath
I’ve been following your comments, beliefs and perspectives for some time now. I’ve also watched your web materials with Julie.
It would be very helpful to me, if you could share scripture references for multiple probations.
Because we are told “this is the time for men to prepare to meet God, Yea behold …”, I find I am perplexed… it seems we are being told in more than this scripture, that THIS TIME is the time from which we attain our eternal status, NOT THROUGH OUR OWN TOTAL EFFORTS, but from our leaning on the atonement of Christ.
Exactly Geri! In my experience the most important point of the discussion here, which I believe to be among earnest seekers of truth, is being lightly treated by those on this forum but clearly illustrated in your comment. In my opinion Alma 5 and Alma 12, in their entirety, are both worthy of consideration along side many other scriptures that follow a pattern which is familiar to me. That being said I am personally bound by the admonition given in countless times and ways throughout scripture and most clearly in the Doctrine and Covenants 63: 64. I must continually ask myself the question, “Who am I to believe that God’s work is dependent on my understanding, teaching and attempting to enlighten the unenlightened?” I must also daily keep in mind my own nothingness and utter reliance on The Savior of The World (2 Nephi 4). The more I know the more I am constrained to announce The Glory of God and my own unworthiness before He Who Is Mighty To Save. He, Only He. I have not ever been constrained by The Spirit to speak in ways that invite others to look to me for the answers that must only come from Father. Nor do I believe that a full understanding of Who I Am, in all the Eternal facets of my Being, qualifies me to take responsibility for doing Fathers work in somehow translating this knowledge to another. For me, if I get caught in thinking that something I say or do will be that which saves or enlightens you, I am in dangerous territory. I do not believe I am alone in these sentiments. Blessings to all seekers. There is an answer. May you find Him now. 💞
Exactly Geri! In my experience the most important point of the discussion here, which I believe to be among earnest seekers of truth, is being lightly treated by those on this forum but clearly illustrated in your comment. In my opinion Alma 5 and Alma 12, in their entirety, are both worthy of consideration along side many other scriptures that follow a pattern which is familiar to me. That being said I am personally bound by the admonition given in countless times and ways throughout scripture and most clearly in the Doctrine and Covenants 63: 64. I must continually ask myself the question, “Who am I to believe that God’s work is dependent on my understanding, teaching and attempting to enlighten the unenlightened?” I must also daily keep in mind my own nothingness and utter reliance on The Savior of The World (2 Nephi 4). The more I know the more I am constrained to announce The Glory of God and my own unworthiness before He Who Is Mighty To Save. He, Only He. I have not ever been constrained by The Spirit to speak in ways that invite others to look to me for the answers that must only come from Father. Nor do I believe that a full understanding of Who I Am, in all the Eternal facets of my Being, qualifies me to take responsibility for doing Father’s work in somehow translating this knowledge to another. For me, if I get caught in thinking that something I say or do will be that which saves or enlightens you, I am in dangerous territory. I do not believe I am alone in these sentiments. Blessings to all seekers. There is an answer. May we find Him now. 💞
This concept found me. I did not go seeking a “ new “ doctrine. Nevertheless, when I first read, and continued to read, SO many quotes from the early Brethren/leadership of the church, pieces started to come together. “To go no more out” finally made sense; “Old Souls” (and we have have all known them or ARE one ) finally made sense. WHY ONE of my sons and I have always said “we CAME here with a testimony” finally clicked and I feel so blessed because it isn’t that easy for some to believe. I always thought it unfair that I would be judged on the privileged (but hard) Life I have lived, while another may have been born into a leper colony in India. Where is the fairness in that? Even when I was small, I felt that some spirits come to be tested and other (superior) spirits come to test! the handicapped, the mentally challenged, the emotionally disturbed, the third world poor, MANY have come to test the rest of us. And what is our test “score”? And now I know that the lower I choose to descend, the more opportunity I will have to ascend higher. It j u s t makes sense.
Very well said Victoria! I’ve had some of those same thoughts.
Multiple Probations is a beautiful doctrine. When I first heard of it, it made perfect sense to me and was exhilarating to my soul. Your recent podcasts and inspired book, Multiple Probations, also shed so much light on this topic and are the sources of which I seek to learn more…
Thank you for this essay, you have a way of expressing your thoughts and knowledge so eloquently and with so much clarity. I always look forward to your writings and know you speak truth.
This doctrine also brings peace to my soul and increases my love and respect for our Heavenly Father and Mother and our Savior, Jesus Christ. I love Them with all my heart and desire to serve them forever. Hopefully they will trust in me enough to do so.
Thanks for your kind thoughts Traci, and for your believing heart.
I believe this to be truth. I love how Heavenly Father’s plan for his children is so loving and allows us to learn and grow in our own way and at our own pace. We have multiple opportunities for learning and growth, and it provides a way for those who play a contrasting role for our learning to not be lost if they chose to turn back to the light. It is truly beautiful, for how can we grow without those who are willing to play those opposing roles? It boggles my mind the intricacies of the plan and yet how simple it is!
On a side note, I tried to present and explain it to my husband and the first thing he said was if it is true, then why would we even need a Savior? Couldn’t we just come again and again until we got it right? That stopped me in my tracks and I didn’t know quite how to answer that. But as I have contemplated his question, I have come to know we still need a Savior because it is through His atonement and grace that we can even have multiple probations and be resurrected in the first place. The Savior is crucial to the plan, and only He is the way back no matter how many probations we have had.
Jenimarie, I love your experience and witness. Especially that your own witness didn’t come from a human. I couldn’t agree more with what you’ve said about the savior’s role – the doctrine doesn’t diminish Him, it emphasizes Him and deepens my reverence for all He risked losing by condescending.
Peace, enlightenment, and hope are wonderful gifts. I felt all three reading your post tonight. I enjoyed your book very much and reading your essay just now is when I felt enveloped in the calmest, loving peace, and “knowing” that bore witness that this additional knowledge is indeed true. It was like having a deep spiritual sigh while being purged of a host of simplistic, faulty, misleading, worrisome beliefs I had never recognized were dragging me down.
The pursuit of the soul’s perfection seems somehow lighter, brighter, and more assuredly attainable. Sincere thanks and God Bless Always! – Cheryl
Thank you for sharing your witness Cheryl!
Eric, thank you so much for this wonderful essay. When I first heard you and Julie talk about multiple probations on a podcast I was surprised but thought:
” I will ponder about it and ask Heavenly Father”. I felt the spirit when I read your essay. I know that this is true. It is uplifting to the soul and brings me closer to Christ. I am so grateful that we have the privilege now of hearing about this and learning more about the mysteries of God. Hallelujah! Praise be to God and the Lamb!! I cannot share this knowledge with my family yet because they are so narrow-minded. If it does not come from the Prophet they will not even investigate. I love truth wherever it is found. God bless you.
Lidia, hearing you received your own witness is so validating. I’m grateful you shared your experience here! I share your enthusiasm for truth regardless of its source. May God bless you too.
I love the doctrine of multiple probations. It makes so much sense to me. Thank you for bringing it out of obscurity.
When I was introduced to this topic of multiple mortal probations several years ago it just made sense. I continue to find supporting evidence in scripture and temple ordinances. Even more than that I feel that spirit of truth in my heart that it is true. Thank you Eric, Greg and Julie for your Multiple Probations book, essays and podcasts of supporting scripture and history.
I believe that I am a child of a God, a child of a loving Heavenly Father and Mother with a divine heritage. I also believe that they want the best of everything for me and that I can become like them. That just feels like a natural and eternal, and even logical principle.
How can eternal progression happen in one lifetime on this earth. Even if I lived to be 100 years old I am quite certain I will not know everything God knows. One lifetime and you are done feels like temporary progression. Progression for a time and then it is over just doesn’t compute for me. I feel a longing and hope that I can learn and progress for as long as I choose to without time limits.
I am finding that this doctrine adds more meaning and understanding to my gospel study. One example of this is the multiple scripture references to “go no more out”. In the past I would just move on and hope to receive later knowledge on the meaning. But now when I read verses like this one in 3 Nephi 28:7 “…and at that day they were to be received into the kingdom of the Father to go no more out, but to dwell with God eternally in the heavens.” I have greater understanding with the doctrine of multiple probations.
Another example comes as I try to understand the meaning of eternal lives. Some have said that it has to do with having more children and posterity. I don’t feel that explanation is accurate or complete. In D&C 132:55 where the Lord is speaking of Joseph Smith he says, “…and I will bless him and multiply him and give unto him an hundred-fold in this world, of fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, houses and lands, wives and children, and crowns of eternal lives in the eternal worlds.” It appears to me that children, and crowns of eternal lives are two different things. The doctrine of multiple probations again increases my understanding of eternal lives.
Some say that they don’t believe in do overs. That this doctrine will promote casualness and laziness. That one would be tempted to say this life is just too hard. I will give up on this life and try again in the next life. However, my understanding of this doctrine and how it works creates the opposite reaction. I feel motivated to try harder and do better. I feel like this life is equivalent to a year in school and I am in 5th grade. I don’t want to repeat 5th grade again. I want to move forward and progress to the next grade. Maybe I will need to review a few things I learned from 5th grade but I feel like it would be a waste of time to start 5th grade over again.
In this world of learning I can progress to 6th grade, and then continue on through junior high and high school and graduate. I can choose to end my learning and education then or I have the agency to continue onto college and graduate school. As I am learning and beginning to understand more of multiple probations, eternal progression, ascension and condescension, I am seeing a much larger picture in the eternal realm of learning and progression. I can see that in the spiritual world it goes way beyond any earthly graduate school I can imagine. “Behold, great and marvelous are the works of the Lord. How unsearchable are the depths of the mysteries of him; and it is impossible that man should find out all his ways. And no man knoweth of his ways save it be revealed unto him; wherefore, brethren, despise not the revelations of God.” Jacob 4:8
Section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants felt like fringe doctrine to some early members of the church when it was first received. It challenged some of their traditional Christian beliefs. Even Brigham Young said, “My traditions were such,” he confessed, “that when the Vision came first to me, it was directly contrary and opposed to my former education. I said, ‘Wait a little.’ I did not reject it, but I could not understand it.”[a] This is one of my favorite examples of how to receive new concepts with an open heart.
We know that there is opposition in all things. I believe that the greatest truths will be met with the greatest opposition. Satan will do everything he can to create doubt and to try and destroy all truth. I believe even to the point that if I see an extra dark effort to oppose something then it must be very significant.
I continue to rejoice and find joy in seeking and discovering truth. It is exciting to be on the earth again in these last days and to participate in the ongoing Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
[a] The Triumph and Glory of the Lamb: Doctrine and Covenants 76 in Its Historical Context
Ensign, October 2017, 64-71
Thanks for sharing Eric! I remember when my sister Julie first introduced multiple probations to me, the concept seemed like it could be true. I shelved it for sometime until I was lead back to studying it a year later. I now know for myself it is true doctrine.
What’s interesting to me is how much satan hates the spreading of this knowledge. He does not want people to wake up to who they really are. I cant mention this topic to my family, friends, or post about it on any platform, without incredible hurtful persecution.
Thanks for standing up and witnessing even amongst the risk of severe persecution.
Dear Eric,
honestly I never thought of this doctrine before I crossed your podcast. What surprised me was the fact that it resonated with something in me even as it was a total new doctrine to me.
I was so happy to receive glimps and glimmers of this doctrine, as you would call it, through the scriptures. So beautiful and strong words that I saw citated by you and Greg – this dynamic of dying and be born again. (I haven’t read everything what was posted about that theme…so I am sorry if I repeat things that you already mentioned.)
I started to realize that ‚multiple probations’ is one of the big themes in the scriptures. In front of my eyes. Something that has always been there but was never realized by me. It is grasped in a such a powerful symbol – the baptism. And even if a lot of words were taken out of the scriptures, the dynamic is still there…
It is so obvious and even though hidden. We speak so easily about the baptism. We say that one has to go to the grave to be born again in Christ. Even Christ talked about this principle to Simon and he also showed with his own example that he was acting under the ‚law of baptism’. He showed us the way how to ascend.
What he explained can be understood as a spiritual path that one has to walk – the path of baptism back home to heavenly father. But what is meant spiritually can be read in a physical way too. We all have to die to go further. In words borrowed of the symbol of the baptism – we will lay down our old body to receive a new one. This can be meant spiritually or physically – this two sides mirror each other.
… and the Sacrament… the repetition of the covenant.. every Sunday we do the act of dying and be born again as a small little glimps of that path of multiple probations. It is like a fractal of the whole thing…
….Sometimes we also borrow the picture of the gate when we speak about the baptism. And a gate symbolizes a new aera of time…. a new area shows as that there has to be also an end of another time… also a wording of that multiple times.. or multiple probations..
I don’t know perhaps I am wrong but it just came into my mind when I let the thought of multiple probations grow in my mind and heart. I see that I am at the beginning of a long path of understanding….
Dorothea
Dorthea, with what you’ve written, I’m embarrassed to say I hadn’t considered your insights on baptism in the context as a symbol for MP, but I feel you are wise to have picked up on it. The pattern and symbolism is unmistakable!
Greg pointed out another of these natural and likely divine reminders and shadows to me, in the daily rising and setting of the sun. Each new day begins with the Sun (Son), providing a fresh beginning from the previous days’ follies and experiences, and yet, we continue to build upon those previous experiences. So, each new life gives a clean slate, while maintaining our spiritual essence and disposition and propensity for good or evil. We seem to continually become more and more of who and what we are. And it is all possible only in and through the merits of our Savior, the Son.
Thank you sincerely for sharing this with us!
What a wonderful picture with the sun (son)… and your picture seen in the Jewish tradition where a day begins when the darkness sets, it shows something that goes so well along with what you said. Like another point of view on the same thing. The new day starts at a moment no one can see very much (it’s a kind of a hope). Shapes and forms can not be seen, but you can hear, sense and feel things… Sometimes it seems to be the part of the day where one is in despair…But at that point, where no light can be seen the new day is already beginning…Sometimes it feels like only the hope of the rising sun (son) will carry you to the first sunbeam… And when the sun or the son, as you call it, starts rising there come new possibilities or perspectives along. In the light of the son every person is getting a form, visible to everyone around as they are becoming visible themselves… … the darkness will fade…as only the light has the power to vanish the darkness. And as this literally happens, every morning is a shadow of what will be in the long term of eternity.
And as you mention that we are progressing to good or evil with every new morning… the words of the philosopher Heidegger come into my mind. In his writings in “Sein und Zeit” (I only know the German title) he describes that our understanding of things as an increase of awareness… the process is in his view not linear but circular…he calls that process ‘the hermeneutic circle of understanding”…or as Gadamer would call it a hermeneutic spiral.
Best wishes from Switzerland
I love your testimony of the clearer elements of this beautiful doctrine Eric. They witness to the same insights I have also had on the matter. I was once looking at the wickedness of the world and lamenting the fact that so few in this generation appear to be on a path to come to know Christ and therefore lacking what is needed to enter into His kingdom (JST Matt 7:33).
As I pondered the gravity of that situation seeing the effects of disobedience in other families and in my own I prayed asking Heavenly Father how he could let so many of His children fall and be cast off. His response changed my eternal perspective forever when the voice of the Lord spoke to me and said “I Am not in the business of destroying my children, nor are they ever lost to me for they are mine.” Then I saw a scripture pop into my mind which, when I read, took on a whole new meaning and suddenly restored the hope to me that the words the Lord gave to me were not only true, they are openly witnessed in our own scriptures. The passage I was given is found in D&C 76 which also happens to be about the Mysteries of Godliness:
D&C 76:41-44
41 That he came into the world, even Jesus, to be crucified for the world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness;
42 That through him ALL MIGHT BE SAVED whom the Father had put into his power and made by him;
43 Who glorifies the Father, and saves ALL THE WORKS OF HIS HANDS, EXCEPT THOSE SONS OF PERDITION who deny the Son after the Father has revealed him.
44 Wherefore, he saves ALL EXCEPT THEM—they shall go away into everlasting punishment, which is endless punishment, which is eternal punishment, to reign with the devil and his angels in eternity, where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched, which is their torment
Who are the Sons of Perdition? They are those who openly came into the presence of Christ and openly rejected what Christ is offering. In other words the only people that the Lord doesn’t save eventually are those who DO NOT WANT TO BE SAVED. What an incredible doctrine of mercy and hope! And it speaks that our destination after this life, even if we come up short of the Glory of God could not possibly be our final destination for eternity.
This could easily explain what Joseph Smith was inferring when he said the following “Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in this life or the life to come, they will return. They will have to pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but if it leads them at last, like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have been in vain.”
Another point on this, it is said in the bible that men like Adam, Methuselah, and Enoch were men who became “perfect” in their generation. Yet they lived on the earth at the beginning when it was nearly still a paradise, and they lived to almost 1000 years before dying. How is it fair or reasonable that in our generation we are also to try to become perfect when our lives only last a mere 70-100 years, and we have to do it at a time when the earth has NEVER been more wicked? This all adds up to only one conclusion in my mind, there is a way and a plan, and the fact that so many do not achieve their potential in a short life span, means there must be another time and place to prove themselves and the Doctrine of Multiple Probations is the only doctrine I see that provides a fair, and merciful means by which mankind may improve themselves line up line, precept upon precept enough to eventually become perfected in their own generations and exalted in all levels of Heaven. Thank you for your wonderful expositions on such a beautiful and hidden part of the plan.
Aloha brother. Thank you again for bringing more clarity of the “Great Plan” to light. We are all blessed! Mahalo. Love you guys
Eric,
Oh how I love you and Julie and all that I have learned from you both!! I believe in multiple probations and am thankful for this knowledge. I only wish that I could have been here more than two times. I asked the spirit and he said only once before. That is so very sad but I am thankful for that.
Thank you so very much for your great insight and belief in God and the scriptures!!
The more I hear the more I learn from you and Julie!!! I am forever grateful to you both and for your ability to enlighten ME!!
Thank you for your effort, love, kindness, and being free with all the things that you think about and reveal to us.
I am not good in writing but I BELIEVE, I BELIEVE, I BELIEVE!!!
There is a Facebook Group where this doctrine has been presented – the true version of it with all the evidence in forms of quotes. The group is True LDS Deep Doctrines. One must review and agree to the rules of the group, established due to a few that join just to create contention and kick against the pricks.
Eric,
I thank you and all of those who are trying to teach about Multiple Probation. I know who you and I were in the past and I cannot wait to meet you in person. I know you and Julie Row are Great tools in the Lord’s hand in this last days.
Until I meet you.
MARIA