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Old Dec 22, 2007, 12:01 PM
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Rapunzel Rapunzel is offline
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Member Since: Jun 2003
Location: noplace
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I don't see where the Bible condemns people who have lived good lives to eternal torture. The God that I know is a loving father who wants nothing more than for His children to return to him and to have joy. He does know that we will never reach our potential without knowing opposition, and like a good parent, He will not protect us from the consequences of our own choices. He is bound to uphold the demands of justice. Those who are not prepared or not worthy would not be comfortable in His direct presence, and would probably be destroyed. Therefore, God has prepared a place for each that will be the most comfortable and the most appropriate and the most rewarding according to our own choices and preparation.

If you like, I can find scriptural references for this later. I am LDS, and we believe in the Bible, as well as in other books of scripture that complement the Bible. Here is a link that explains what I believe about heaven:

http://mormon.org/mormonorg/eng/basi...eternal-reward

There is more at that link, but here is a short summary about the three kingdoms of heaven:
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After you are judged, you will live in a state of glory. Because everyone’s works and righteous desires vary, heaven includes different kingdoms, or degrees of glory.

Celestial kingdom—Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ reside in the celestial kingdom. If you live according to the gospel of Jesus Christ and are cleansed from sin by the Atonement, you will receive a place in this, the highest kingdom, where you will live in God’s presence and know complete joy.
Terrestrial kingdom—People who refuse to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ but who live honorable lives will receive a place in the terrestrial kingdom.
Telestial kingdom—Those who continue in their sins and do not repent until after they have died, will eventually receive a place in the telestial kingdom.

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The only ones who will be cast out or punished eternally will be those who know God's plan and willfully reject it, attempting to bring others down with them in most cases. All will have the opportunity to learn what they need to continue their progression, and may choose whether or not to accept it (whether in this life or after), and will be accountable for what they have been taught.

The Telestial Kingdom, by the way, is like what most conceive of as heaven. It is just beyond the best that we can imagine. The other kingdoms are better and provide more opportunity for further progression.
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“We should always pray for help, but we should always listen for inspiration and impression to proceed in ways different from those we may have thought of.”
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