Source: Franklin D. Richards “Scriptural Items”
The Words of Joseph Smith: Page 232
Context
While this entry in Franklin D. Richards’ notes does not mention eternal marriage or the temple sealing, Joseph was clearly referring to it given the fact that Doctrine and Covenants Section 132 was committed to writing just four days earlier on July 12, 1843. The chapter heading of D&C 132 calls it a revelation “relating to the new and everlasting covenant, including the eternity of the marriage covenant and the principle of plural marriage.”
Other evidence that Joseph Smith was referring to the eternal marriage covenant is that in the same speech he referenced:
- The New Testament case of the woman and her seven husbands (see Luke 20: 27-38).
- Those who keep no eternal law or contract are single and alone in the eternal world.
- The multiplication of lives and the occupying of worlds.
Why I Picked this Quote?
I like this quote because I think it has relevance and ramifications to almost everything we do in this early life. I believe Joseph was specifically referring to the marriage relationship, but I think he was also making reference to how we conduct our lives in general. I believe he wants us to live our lives in view of eternity, and if we do so then we we naturally live more piously. We will make decisions about and prioritize things of eternal importance and we will do the things that will allow us to receive eternal blessings.
