Key to the Science of TheologyPratt, Parley P. (Parley Parker)
Religion
Key to the Science of Theology
Pratt, Parley P. (Parley Parker)
Latter Day Saint churches; Latter Day Saint churches -- Doctrines
First. There has always existed a boundless infinitude of space.
Second. Intermingled with this space there exists all the varieties of
the elements, properties, or things of which intelligence takes
cognizance; which elements or things taken altogether compose what is
called the Universe.
Third. The elements of all these properties or things are eternal,
uncreated, self-existing. Not one particle can be added to them by
creative power. Neither can one particle be diminished or annihilated.
Fourth. These eternal, self-existing elements possess in themselves
certain inherent properties or attributes, in a greater or less
degree; or, in other words, they possess intelligence, adapted to
their several spheres.
These elements have been separated, by philosophers, into two grand
divisions, viz.--
"PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL."
To a mind matured, or quickened with a fulness of intelligence, so as
to be conversant with all the elements of nature, there is no use for
the distinction implied in such terms.
To speak more philosophically, all the elements are spiritual, all are
physical, all are material, tangible realities. Spirit is matter, and
matter is full of spirit. Because all things which do exist are
eternal realities, in their elementary existence.
Who then can define the precise point, in the scale of elementary
existence, which divides between the physical and spiritual kingdoms?
There are eyes which can discern the most refined particles of
elementary existence. There are hands and fingers to whose refined
touch all things are tangible.
In the capacity of mortals, however, some of the elements are
tangible, or visible, and others invisible. Those which are tangible
to our senses, we call physical; those which are more subtle and
refined, we call spiritual.
Spirit is intelligence, or the light of truth, which filleth all
things.
Its several emotions or affections, such as love, joy, &c., are but so
many actions or motions of these elements, as they operate in their
several spheres.
By these actions or emotions the elements manifest their eternal
energies, attributes, or inherent powers.
In contemplating the works of creation, then, the student must not
conceive the idea that space, or time, or element, or intelligence,
was originated, but rather, that these are eternal, and that they
constitute the energies which act, and the things acted upon,
including the place and time of action.
The whole vast structure of universal organized existence, presents
undeniable evidence of three facts, viz.--
First. The eternal existence of the elements of which it is composed.
Second. The eternal existence of the attributes of intelligence, and
wisdom to design.
Third. The eternal existence of power, to operate upon and control
these eternal elements, so as to carry out the plans of the designer.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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