Three degrees of glory; celestial exaltation includes eternal family relationships
LDS theology presents a richly developed vision of the afterlife. The celestial kingdom — the highest degree — is where God the Father and Jesus Christ dwell, and where the most faithful LDS members will be exalted. The highest tier of the celestial kingdom is reserved for those who received all required temple ordinances; they will enjoy eternal life as eternal family units and may eventually become gods themselves (the doctrine of deification or theosis).
The eternal family — sealed together for time and all eternity through temple sealing ordinances — is one of the most distinctive and emotionally significant aspects of LDS eschatology. The prospect of being eternally united with one's spouse and children motivates significant family-centered piety and strong emphasis on temple work.
Key Distinctions
- Heaven nature:
- celestial kingdom — highest degree of glory; exaltation; eternal progression; divine Family
- Access timing:
- after resurrection and judgment; three degrees of glory for all
- Bodily resurrection:
- universal physical resurrection; eternal embodied existence
Scripture References
- Doctrine and Covenants 76:50-70
- Doctrine and Covenants 131:1-4
- Doctrine and Covenants 132:19-20
Sources
- Doctrine and Covenants 76
- LDS Gospel Topics: Eternal Life; Exaltation