For some years, JS had taught the concept that all matter was eternal in nature. A May 1833 revelation stated that “the Elements are eternal,” and John Smith recorded in his 30 August 1840 journal entry that JS “continued his discourse on Eternal Judgement and the Eternal Duration of matter.” (Revelation, 6 May 1833 [D&C 93:33]; John Smith, Journal, 1840–1841, 30 Aug. 1840.)
Smith, John (1781-1854). Journal, 1833–1841. John Smith, Papers, 1833-1854. CHL. MS 1326, box 1, fd. 1.
Genesis 1:2.