Redemption for the Dead

Sister Terri DeMille gave a wonderful lesson on Sunday. From the Joseph Smith Lesson Manual, we learn about how, at a young age, Joseph got a bitter taste of death. His younger brother, Alvin died. At the funeral, the minister talked about what a good boy Alvin was, but since he was unbaptized, he was condemned to Hell.

In 1836, Joseph had a vision of the Celestial Kingdom. He saw his brother, Alvin, and saw the glory that he had received. Joseph had learned about the plan of salvation, but didn't preach about it publicly until 1840 when he presided over a funeral. Hyrum was then able to receive the ordinances of baptism for Alvin.

Sister Whipple read a portion of the manual that taught about the nature of God. He loves all of his children--we are all his offspring. He sends rain on the just and the unjust. He will judge us according to our light and knowledge. People who don't have the opportunity to learn about the gospel, can't be held accountable the same way that church members are.

There is hope in life after death. We are not eternally happy or eternally miserable. Our fate is not irretrievably fixed at death. We will continually be learning and progressing in the next life.
In order for the gospel to progress, we must do our part. Baptisms for the dead, and all temple work is a duty and privilege that we are commanded to do.

*NOTE*
I know I left a lot out. If you have a comment, or something to add, please leave a comment!