The Closed Heavens: A Question of Faith and the Restoration

How often have we encountered the assertion, particularly in conversations with those outside our faith, that the heavens are closed? That revelation, once vibrant and readily accessible, ceased with the passing of the original Apostles? It’s a convenient doctrine, shielding its adherents from the discomfort of wrestling with inconvenient truths and the potential disruption of established theological frameworks. But is it a truth rooted in scripture, or a conclusion born of a desire for intellectual ease?

Mark Swind’s recent podcast episode, Are the Heavens Really Closed?, offers a compelling dismantling of this notion. Listen to the full episode. Swind’s exploration isn’t a novel argument, but a rigorous reminder of what Latter-day Saint scripture and tradition affirms: the heavens remain open to those who seek them diligently.

Consider the Old Testament. From Moses receiving the law on Sinai to the prophets delivering God's word to Israel, revelation was a constant. The New Testament echoes this, beginning with the dramatic outpouring of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost (Acts 2). Paul’s ministry, as detailed in Acts and his own epistles, demonstrates a continued connection between heaven and earth – a vision in Macedonia, conversion on the road to Damascus, and an expectation that others could receive the gift of prophecy (Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:1). To claim these experiences represent a final, definitive closure is to ignore the plain testimony of the scriptures themselves.

The ninth article of faith declares, “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.” This isn't merely a statement of historical fact; it's an active declaration of present and future expectation. The Restoration itself – the reestablishment of the priesthood, the translation of the Book of Mormon, the latter-day prophets – stands as undeniable evidence that God continues to speak to His children.

The Brethren have consistently taught on the importance of seeking personal revelation. General Conference addresses are replete with counsel to pray earnestly, study the scriptures with a seeking heart, and listen for the still, small voice of the Spirit. To dismiss this ongoing flow of communication as mere subjective experience is to reject the very foundation upon which our faith is built.

The comfort of settled doctrine is alluring, but true discipleship demands a willingness to confront challenging ideas and to seek truth wherever it may be found. It requires a faith that isn't afraid to challenge conventional wisdom, even when that wisdom is held dear by those outside the covenant.

Let us strive to embody the spirit of inquiry and openness that characterized the early Saints, remembering that the Lord has promised to reveal “many great and important things.” Let us examine our own assumptions and be willing to adjust our understanding as we receive new light and knowledge.