Principles of Perfection, the second volume in a series of four on the thought and teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, is an analysis of the program of the gospel of Jesus Christ which was restored to earth through the latter-day Seer. Joseph Smith taught that the primary purpose of the plan of life and salvation is to bring man into a meaningful spiritual union with the Son of God so that he can be taught and renewed spiritually by the Master, through the Holy Spirit. The Prophet held that only within this divine union can man develop to his full potential as an eternal being and be glorified in Christ as Jesus is glorified in the Father. It follows that the value of a theological analysis of the gospel is that it may show man, through the systematic treatment of the principles, laws, and ordinances of the plan of life and salvation, how to achieve the primary purpose of that divine plan. Such a study may also help man to understand why he must achieve the spiritual union with Christ, which the gospel makes possible, and what benefits he may expect to receive by subordinating his life in truth to Christ.
I found this book very informative. Although my parents had taught me many of these truths, I hadn't been able clearly grasp the while concept. This study helped tremendously.
A very clear explanation of fundamental gospel principles as restored by the Prophet Joseph Smith. I particularly enjoyed the final chapters discussing the redemption of the dead.
If you want to know how to become perfect in the mormom scheme of things, this is the book for you. It goes through the principles behind perfection and then outlines the steps one takes in order to become perfect.
All of these steps are bracketed through priesthood processes and power; from the simple act of faith to baptism all the way from having your second comforter and calling and election made sure.
Stephen Robinson of Believing Christ might actually agree with this book on a broad scale, even though his emphasis on becoming one with God is based on grace.
If you are a goal setter and you want to align your stars with the mormon track of perfection, here you go. I can't promise it will be easy, nor can I promise you it will be worth it. But by golly it is a life goal!
I gave it four stars because of the content's organized and easy to read format.