If the Holy Ghost is not a messenger for the Lord then why does he not have a body of flesh and bones?

The Holy Ghost IS the messenger of the godhead. We don't know exactly why he doesn't have a body of flesh and bones, but it may have something to do with his mission. The prophet Joseph Smith taught the following: "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man's; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us." (D&C 130:22)

This essay is published as a support for and an extension of classroom discussion and in no way represents an official statement from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its General Authorities. Dr. Marcus H. Martins assumes full responsibility for the opinions, views, and interpretations contained herein.