Grace and Works

One of the conflicts between LDS and "orthodox" Christianity arises on the subject of Grace vs. Works. My opinion (worth little) is that much of the conflict arises because we LDS fail to accurately represent LDS doctrine regarding Grace, and focus almost entirely on Works.

I believe that Grace--pure Grace and nothing but Grace--offers everyone a free ticket into at least the Telestial Kingdom, a kingdom of glory, complete with immortal body--Salvation, as it were. One might argue that it's a free ticket into the Terrestrial Kingdom, given that many would have to go well out of their way to get demoted to the Telestial Kingdom.

That said, it is possible to reject part of the package deal and go instead to Outer Darkness. But you still get the resurrection courtesy of Grace, albeit a less glorious resurrection. However, I doubt that few ever get into a position from which such rejection is possible.

Works come into play for those who aspire to the Celestial Kingdom, or Exaltation. It is still a gift, courtesy of Grace, but is only offered to those who perform sufficient Works to become eligible for greater glory, including receipt of higher priesthood ordinances. I don't think anyone can say they earn Exaltation by their Works, but they do qualify for it thereby.

It is unfortunate that the concept of Exaltation was erased from the record as part of the Great Apostasy. But hey, how much more difficult would it have been to keep the masses in spiritual and political bondage otherwise?