[8]. This passage has been the subject of much controversy. Dr. Adam Clarke, in his masterly Commentary of the Scriptures, says: "This is certainly the most difficult verse in the New Testament; for, notwithstanding the greatest and wisest men have labored to explain it, there are to this day nearly as many different interpretations of it as there are interpreters." Yet, notwithstanding its enigmatic meaning, this passage of scripture is part of the prescribed burial service in the Episcopal Church, and is duly spoken by the priest at every funeral. But wherein lies the difficulty of comprehension? The passage is of plain import, and only when we attempt to make it figurative do difficulties arise. It is plain that in Paul's day the ordinance of baptism for the dead was both understood and practised, and the apostle's argument in support of the doctrine of a literal resurrection is sound: If the dead rise not at all, why then are they baptized for the dead?
[9]. Read Doctrine and Covenants 128:12, 13.
[10]. I Cor. 11:11.
[11]. See the author's "The Articles of Faith," Lectures IV and XII, portions of which are included in the present treatment.
[12]. John 14:1-3.
[13]. I Cor. 15:40-42.
[14]. Doctrine and Covenants, Sec. 76.
[15]. Doctrine and Covenants 76:51-70.
[16]. Doctrine and Covenants 76:71-79.
[17]. Doctrine and Covenants 76:81-86.