Elder Bruce R. McConkie, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered a fireside address at Brigham Young University on June 1, 1980, titled “The Seven Deadly Heresies.” In this speech, he identified seven theological errors or “heresies” that he believed were prevalent among Church members at the time. Here are the seven heresies as listed by Elder McConkie:
God is progressing in knowledge: McConkie argued that this idea, which suggests that God is learning new truths, is incompatible with the Church’s doctrine of God’s omniscience and omnipotence.
Organic evolution: McConkie rejected the idea of organic evolution, stating that it is incompatible with revealed religion and the account of creation in the scriptures.
Temple marriage guarantees exaltation: McConkie emphasized that temple marriage is a necessary step towards exaltation, but not a guarantee of it. He warned against the idea that temple marriage alone can secure eternal life.
Second chance doctrine: McConkie criticized the notion that individuals can receive a “second chance” at salvation in the spirit world. He taught that salvation for the dead is limited to those who would have received the gospel in mortality, and that those who reject the gospel in life will not receive it in the spirit world.
Progression between kingdoms: McConkie rejected the idea that there is progression from one kingdom to another in the eternal worlds, stating that the kingdoms of glory are fixed and eternal.
Adam-God doctrine: McConkie taught that the Adam-God doctrine, which posits that Adam was God, is a false and destructive idea that undermines the plan of salvation.
Perfection is required for salvation: McConkie emphasized that while striving for perfection is important, it is not a requirement for salvation. He warned against the idea that one must be perfect to be saved, citing the scriptural account of Jesus Christ’s atonement and the promise of salvation for all who come unto Him.
Elder McConkie’s speech was intended to correct these errors and emphasize the importance of understanding and living the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I find it interesting that the church has distanced themselves so much from McConkie. On my mission one of the books that we were allowed to read was Mormon Doctrine. I used that book as well as Joseph Fielding Smith’s Answers to Gospel Questions constantly when discussing deeper topics with investigators.
I hadn’t read this until much later but as a believing member I think I would have been guilty of several of these heresies.
