President Oaks’ talk

In his address President Oaks talked about what we know (and what we don’t know) about the spirit world.

‘We can all wonder privately about circumstances in the spirit world or even discuss these or other unanswered questions in family or other intimate settings. But let us not teach or use as official doctrine what does not meet the standards of official doctrine. To do so does not further the work of the Lord and may even discourage individuals from seeking their own comfort or edification through the personal revelation the Lord’s plan provides for each of us. Excessive reliance on personal teachings or speculations may even draw us aside from concentrating on learning and efforts that will further our understanding and help us go forward on the covenant path.‘

What are the dangers of teaching as official doctrine material that does not meet the standards of official doctrine?

There is so much we do not know that our only sure reliance is to trust in the Lord and His love for His children.

President Oaks began his talk sharing two experiences where people had questions about the spirit world and the after life. The answer in each case was essentially the same – trust in the Lord.

‘For all questions about the spirit world, I suggest two answers. First, remember that God loves His children and will surely do what is best for each of us. Second, remember this familiar Bible teaching, which has been most helpful to me on a multitude of unanswered questions:

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6).

What does it mean to trust in the Lord when we have unanswered (or unanswerable) questions?

‘The duty of each of us is to teach the doctrine of the restored gospel, keep the commandments, love and help one another, and do the work of salvation in the holy temples. ‘

What do we really know about conditions in the spirit world? I believe a BYU religion professor’s article on this subject had it right: “When we ask ourselves what we know about the spirit world from the standard works, the answer is ‘not as much as we often think.’”

You may wish to review the doctrine of the restored gospel regarding the spirit world as set out in the scriptures referenced by President Oaks:

1 Peter 3:18-19

D&C 138

Alma 13:27

Alma 40:13-14

1 Corinthians 15:22

D&C 76:43

‘Elder Andersen taught this principle: “The doctrine is taught by all 15 members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. It is not hidden in an obscure paragraph of one talk.” ‘

What is the significance of this statement for you?

Why is it important that our faith and testimonies are based on true doctrine rather than on faith-promoting rumours and private theories?

(Note: passages in italics are excerpts from Elder Oaks’ address.)