Redeeming the Dead

Themes in the Doctrine and Covenants

Redemption for the dead taps into the deepest purposes of creation and the atonement. It encompasses individuals’ development, the purpose of existence, and the grand scope of God’s love.

Revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants illuminate Malachi’s prophecy about Elijah and the turning of humanity’s hearts to one another. Those revelations combined with the lived experience of early Latter-day Saints highlight the joy embedded in the theology about baptisms for the dead.

Exploring these early revelations and experiences reminds readers of God’s abundant love and careful attention. It also invites Saints today to let the truths surrounding redeeming the dead refine their ability to love and appreciate their relationships now, across the veil, and in the eternities.

©2025 The Neal A Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship; Deseret Book Company (P)2025 The Neal A Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship; Deseret Book Company