A. We learn the six following things: first, that he was God before the world was created, and the same God that he was after it was created. Secondly, that he is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, abundant in goodness, and that he was so from everlasting, and will be so to everlasting. Thirdly, that he changes not, neither is there variableness with him, and that his course is one eternal round. Fourthly, that he is a God of truth and cannot lie. Fifthly, that he is no respecter of persons; and sixthly, that he is love. [§ III. ¶ 12,13,14,15,16,17,18.]
Q. Where do you find the revelations which give us this idea of the character of the Deity?
A. In the bible and book of commandments, and they are quoted in the third lecture. [§ III. ¶ 9,10,11.]
Q. What effect would it have on any rational being not to have an idea that the Lord was God, the Creator and upholder of all things?
A. It would prevent him from exercising faith in him unto life and salvation.
Q. Why would it prevent him from exercising faith in God?
A. Because he would be as the heathen not knowing but there might be a being greater and more powerful than he, and thereby he be prevented from fulfilling his promises. [§ III. ¶ 19.]
Q. Does this idea prevent this doubt?
A. It does; for persons having this idea are enabled thereby to exercise faith without this doubt. [§ III. ¶ 19.]
Q. Is it not also necessary to have the idea that God is merciful, and gracious, long-suffering and full of goodness?