Accepting Quote by Joseph Fielding Smith
“CANNOT BELIEVE BOTH GOSPEL AND EVOLUTION. I say most emphatically, you cannot believe in this theory of the origin of man, and at the same time accept the plan of salvation as set forth by the Lord our God. You must choose the one and reject the other, for they are in direct conflict and there is a gulf separating them which is so great that it cannot be bridged, no matter how much one may try to do so.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, 1975
Faith and science are presented as mutually exclusive, urging a choice between religious doctrine and evolutionary theory.
In simple terms: You must pick either belief in evolution or belief in salvation.
Key Takeaway
Decide which worldview aligns with your core values.
Themes
faith
science
conflict
choice
Mood
conflicted
determined
Type
theological
controversial
When to use this quote
- religious study
- science education
- personal belief formation
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
theology
evolutionary biology
worldview
dogma
Questions to Reflect On
- Can faith and science coexist?
- What evidence supports each side?
A Different Perspective
This view overlooks many who reconcile faith with science.
