ETERNAL PROGRESS

(By Dr. David J. Ridges BYU Educator and author of The Book of Mormon Made Easier, Part Two, page 187)

“Some members of the Church have the mistaken notion that eternal progress applies to all people in the hereafter. This can lead to some serious and damaging false doctrine, for instance, that no matter which kingdom of glory (telestial, terrestrial or celestial) you end up in on final Judgment Day, you will eventually progress until you have reached the highest level, that of exaltation in celestial glory. This is false doctrine. The fact is, ‘eternal progression’ applies only to those who become gods, who are exalted in the family unit in the highest degree in celestial glory. All others have eternal limits placed on their ability and privilege to progress.”

Dr. Ridges tells us of three scriptures that help point this out:
First, D&C 131:1-4

1. In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;
2. And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage];
3. And if he does not, he cannot obtain it.
4. He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an increase.

Two, D&C 29:29

29. And now, behold, I say unto you, never at any time have I declared from mine own mouth that they should return, for where I am they cannot come, for they have no power.

And lastly, D&C 76:112

112. And they shall be servants of the Most High; but where God and Christ dwell they cannot come, worlds without end.