The Origins of Man

So, now we have attempted, although it be an attempt severely wanting, to realize the vastness in the creation of the universe. The truth is, not even our most brilliant scientists know how large, "the heavens" (Gen. 1:1) are. I am confident we can agree, however, it would be a long walk to the moon. Let's move on to a part of the creation that we haven't discussed...the creation of man.

Through multiple revelations and translations, for example, came a description of a universe far, far exceeding the astrophysics of the 1830s, a cosmos containing “worlds without number” and advising us further that the “inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters [of] God” (Moses 1:33; D&C 76:24).Anciently, the vastness of Abraham’s eventual posterity was compared to the sand of the sea, a staggering promise (see Gen. 22:17).

I brought this from the previous chapter, in order to point something out, that you may have missed. After "worlds without number" was mentioned, it goes on to imply that all of these worlds are also inhabited by the sons and daughters of God. Yes, you understood me correctly. All of these other worlds, that can't be numbered, are inhabited by the children of "The Almighty". But, wouldn't that make sense? In all of the unmeasured heavens that God has created, the galaxies, planets, suns and stars, it would be a little silly to make all of that space for the children of God, on this little earth. I heard it said in the movie, "First Contact", starring Jodi Foster. Her father said, "For us to be the only people in the universe would be an awful lot of wasted space". I don't think I could have said it better. So, we have just cast some serious doubt as to this planet, earth, being the only planet, in all of God's heavens, that He has placed His children, to live.

If you will notice, in the title of this chapter, it says 'the origins of man'. No, that's not a mistake. Origins is the correct word. Thus far, we have discussed the natural, or physical or mortal, creation of the heavens, the earth and man. I would also venture to suggest to you that this is the second creation, as well. That's right, God created the heavens, the earth and man spiritually, before He created them physically. There are several references to this fact, in the christian scriptures, which I choose to use, because I am a Christian, but I am only going to give you two.

"Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?" Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" (Job 38:1-7) God is referring Job back to the creation. I want to refer you to the last part, 'sons of God shouted for joy'. This would suggest that spirits existed before the physical creation of the heavens and the earth.

"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." (Jeremiah 1:5) There are some things I would like to call your attention to, right now. 1. God knew Jeremiah before He formed him in the womb. This is pretty straight forward and applies to all of us, as well. We existed before the second creation. This is where our value as a physical person begins to come to light. 2. I sanctified thee. To be sanctified is "To be pardoned from punishment for sin and declared guiltless. A person is justified by the Savior’s grace through faith in him. This faith is shown by repentance and obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. Jesus Christ’s atonement enables mankind to repent and be justified or pardoned from punishment they otherwise would receive." (Old Testament Bible Dictionary) These are the conditions we must meet, in order for us to realize our full potential, not as a man, but as a 'Child of God' and heir to all of His creations. Here is what really brings it all home, if we ever doubt our worth. 3. I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Now, we all cannot be prophets to the nations, but we can be prophets over the things God has given us responsibility for. Our family, job, service to God or anything else He may put in our charge. This strongly suggests that we were called, before we were born, to serve a specific mission on this earth, if we live the commandments, as He has given them to us and if we accept the call.

Before you read any further, in this book, I would like you to stop and reflect on the things you have just read. Do not take them at face value. Pray for the spirit to testify the truthfulness of these words to you. "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man, availeth much." (James 5:16)