The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the work of salvation and exaltation continues beyond mortality and that many ordinances and administrations will take place in the next life. This doctrine reflects the eternal nature of God's plan and the necessity of divine authority in carrying out sacred work on both sides of the veil. Mortality is but a preparatory state in which individuals receive essential ordinances and learn to exercise faith and obedience. However, the scope of divine work extends beyond earthly life, ensuring that all of God's children, regardless of their mortal circumstances, will have the opportunity to receive saving ordinances and participate in the governance of His kingdom.

Spencer W. Kimball, in his general conference address “Our Great Potential,” emphasized that priesthood authority is not limited to mortal life but continues into eternity. He taught that "we will go on into the eternities performing ordinances, exerting administrations, and progressing in the Priesthood.” This statement underscores the principle that the priesthood is eternal and that its responsibilities do not cease at death. Just as Christ’s atoning work extends beyond mortality, so too does the work of those who serve under His authority. This understanding aligns with scriptural teachings that describe the priesthood as an everlasting power, existing "without beginning of days or end of years" (Alma 13:7-8).

One of the most significant aspects of postmortal ordinances is the ongoing administration of saving ordinances to those who did not receive them in mortality. The Church teaches that vicarious temple work, performed on behalf of the deceased, is essential in providing all of God's children the opportunity to accept the gospel and receive the necessary ordinances for salvation and exaltation. The work performed in temples on earth is mirrored in the spirit world, where individuals have the agency to accept or reject these ordinances.

The doctrine of eternal priesthood work differs from many traditional Christian views, which often suggest that all necessary ordinances are completed within mortality and that one’s eternal state is fixed at death. Many religious traditions hold that salvation is determined at the moment of death, with no further ordinances or opportunities for progression. In contrast, the belief in ongoing ordinances and priesthood administrations affirms the justice and mercy of God, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of their mortal circumstances—will have access to divine blessings.

This understanding provides profound comfort and motivation to those who seek to follow God’s will. It highlights the eternal nature of service, emphasizing that righteousness and priesthood responsibilities extend into the life to come. It also affirms that God’s work is expansive and continuous, requiring the efforts of His faithful children on both sides of the veil. The belief that ordinances and priesthood administrations continue into eternity inspires a deeper sense of responsibility and purpose, encouraging individuals to live worthy of participating in God’s ongoing work, both now and in the eternities.