How the Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides Remission and Forgiveness of Sins

Receiving and retaining forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ is a profound spiritual experience, deeply rooted in the doctrines of the Bible and illuminated further by teachings in the Book of Mormon. Understanding the scriptural significance of terms like “remission” as explored in both Hebrew and Greek contexts—Shemittah¹ and aphesis², respectively—offers a foundational perspective on the complete forgiveness and release from sins.

The concept of remission in these languages does not merely suggest a temporary reprieve but a total erasure of debts, much like the sabbatical year’s forgiveness of financial debts and the resting of the land. This analogy extends spiritually to how we are completely forgiven through Christ’s atonement – a total renewal, a fresh start where our sins are not just set aside but entirely erased.

The teachings of King Benjamin in Mosiah 4:1-8 provide critical insights on how we can both receive and retain this remission of sins. The fear of the Lord³, as described in verse 1, does not imply a terror but a profound reverence and awe for God’s power and authority. This reverential awe leads to a recognition of our human limitations and our need for divine grace, a continuous theme seen in acts of humility before the divine throughout scripture.

The righteous fear I am attempting to describe encompasses a deep feeling of reverence, respect, and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ (see Psalm 33:8; 96:4), obedience to His commandments (see Deuteronomy 5:29; 8:6; 10:12; 13:4; Psalm 112:1), and anticipation of the Final Judgment and justice at His hand. Thus, godly fear grows out of a correct understanding of the divine nature and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, a willingness to submit our will to His will, and a knowledge that every man and woman will be accountable for his or her own sins in the Day of Judgment (see D&C 101:78; Articles of Faith 1:2)⁴.

Moreover, in verse 2, there’s a recognition of our own ‘carnal state’—an acknowledgment of our natural inclinations towards sin⁵. This is crucial in understanding the depth of the transformation that forgiveness entails. As someone who has studied Reformed Theology and extensively engaged with the doctrines within the Book of Mormon, I find this appears to help understand the theological framework of human depravity, which asserts that sin has affected all parts of man, yet, through Christ, regeneration and renewal are wholly possible. This does not mean I support the doctrine of Original Sin. On the contrary, I am recognizing the idea and theological framework that appears to be present here in the text as it relates to context

The process of retaining forgiveness is not merely about the initial feeling of being forgiven but involves a profound, consistent transformation of life—what might be termed a spiritual regeneration⁶. This regeneration is a work of the Holy Spirit, where one is not just awakened to spiritual realities but also transformed and sustained in them. It’s a spiritual resurrection from death to life⁷, enabling one to live in a state of continued forgiveness and newness of life.

Therefore, the key to retaining forgiveness through Jesus Christ is not just in the moment of forgiveness itself but in living a life marked by constant humility, ongoing repentance, and a deep-seated reverence for God’s sovereignty. It means continually recognizing our dependence on His grace while committing ourselves to live according to His commandments, thus embodying the principles of forgiveness and regeneration daily.

Through these scriptural insights and theological understandings, we see that forgiveness through Jesus Christ is not an event but a journey of transformation, marked by moments of divine grace and continued by a life of faithful discipleship. It is in this daily living and striving that one truly retains the remission of sins, growing ever more in the likeness and love of Christ.

What are the Conditions under which God grants a Remission of Sins?

In addressing the question of the conditions under which God grants a remission of sins, we begin with the profound moment of personal revelation about our spiritual state. The scriptures vividly illustrate this through the experience of the people during King Benjamin’s address in the Book of Mosiah. They were awakened by the Holy Spirit, which “quickened” their spirits, making them acutely aware of their “carnal state.” This awareness of their own sinfulness and the majesty of God’s holiness brought them to a point of fear and humility, as described in Mosiah 4:2-3, leading them to plead for the mercy and atonement of Christ to cleanse their sins.

King Benjamin’s response underscores a critical aspect: the “knowledge and goodness of God” that awakens one to a sense of spiritual depravity, which is not to lead to despair but to drive a soul to seek redemption. This awakening is a divine mercy, meant to stir the heart towards repentance and reliance on God’s grace through Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, the New Testament reinforces this transformative process. Apostle Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthian church to “awake to righteousness and sin not” (1 Corinthians 15:34) parallels this awakening. It brings into focus not just the avoidance of sin, but an active pursuit of righteousness, nurtured through an understanding of God’s will and a life led by spiritual wisdom.

This brings us to the subsequent conditions for remission of sins: recognizing the power of the Atonement through faith in Jesus Christ, and our covenant of obedience to God⁸. It’s not merely about believing in Christ’s redemptive power, but also committing to live according to that belief. King Benjamin’s discourse not only highlighted the atonement but also the covenant relationship it established, requiring obedience and faithful adherence to God’s commands as revealed through scriptures and prophetic teachings.

The remission of sins according to scripture involves a profound personal awakening to our sinful state through divine revelation, recognition of the Atonement of Christ through faith, and a committed, faithful obedience that is in accordance with God’s will. This covenant path, articulated through both ancient and modern revelations, is the route to true spiritual freedom and regeneration⁹.

How to Know if You have Experienced Genuine Repentance

True repentance is a profound, personal experience that varies significantly from one individual to another, manifesting in deeply unique and spiritual ways¹⁰. Recognizing genuine repentance involves understanding two critical types identified within scriptures. Both types illuminate the pathways through which we can experience not only repentance but also the profound peace of forgiveness.

The first type of repentance is often characterized by an initial spiritual awakening—an enlightening moment where one becomes acutely aware of their spiritual state and shortcomings. This is vividly depicted in Mosiah 4:2-3 and commonly referred to in modern Christianity as being “born again.” This transformative experience marks a person’s justification through faith in Christ, facilitated by His atoning sacrifice. This rebirth isn’t a uniform experience; for some, it’s a quiet realization, while for others, it might come during a moment of community spiritual revival or a miraculous event. However it happens, this form of repentance sets the foundation for a renewed life in faith.

The second type revolves around the ongoing process of sanctification—a lifelong journey of spiritual maturation aiming towards perfection, as described by Apostle Paul in Philippians 2:12-13. This involves a daily commitment to live in accordance with God’s commandments, continuously studying scriptures, heeding the counsel of modern prophets, and responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. This sanctification process might entail receiving guidance through a tranquil inner voice, the corrective feedback from our community, or direct divine intervention correcting our course when we stray.

An essential aspect of both repentance types is the role of confession, which serves not only as a spiritual duty but a therapeutic practice that fosters inner peace and spiritual growth¹¹. Confession, whether privately to God or to another person such as a clergy member or a trusted friend, requires a vulnerability that is crucial for genuine spiritual development. It’s an act that demonstrates not just acknowledgment of our sins but also our earnest desire to amend our ways.

True repentance isn’t merely about vocalizing regret or working through a checklist of sins to be forgiven. It’s about an internal transformation—a heartfelt return to God’s path, backed by a persistent effort to forsake past misdeeds and embrace a life aligned with divine will. This process is less about achieving a perfect state overnight and more about progressively striving towards spiritual integrity and purity.

The journey of repentance and forgiveness is deeply personal and varies widely among individuals. It starts with faith in Christ and is sustained by our commitment to confess, show vulnerability, accept accountability, and earnestly correct our wrongs. Each step on this path not only brings us closer to spiritual perfection but also reinforces our relationship with God, providing us with the strength to overcome the challenges and temptations that life invariably presents.

Knowing whether you have truly repented involves introspection and an honest evaluation of your spiritual state. Have you experienced a profound change in your perspective and actions? Are you continually striving to align your life more closely with God’s teachings? If your repentance is genuine, it will be evident in your daily walk with Christ, marked by ongoing spiritual renewal and transformative growth.

Bearing Fruits of Genuine and Sincere Repentance

The fruits of genuine and sincere repentance are both profound and transformational, reflecting the inner workings of a heart moved by true penitence¹². The scriptural exhortations from figures such as John the Baptist in Matthew 3:8 and the teachings found in Acts 26:20 emphasize that repentance should manifest in “fruits” or “works meet for repentance.” This biblical perspective reveals that true repentance involves more than mere words; it demands a visible change in behavior and attitude—a transformation that is observable and measurable.

Indeed, genuine repentance is marked by a series of identifiable fruits that signal a deep, spiritual realignment. First and foremost is the experience of godly sorrow. This isn’t mere regret over consequences or a superficial guilt; it’s a profound sorrow for having offended God, which fundamentally changes our perspective and priorities.

Following this, there’s a decisive willingness to forsake sin. True repentance doesn’t merely lament past actions but also catalyzes a commitment to cease sinful behaviors and avoid circumstances that lead to such actions. This is a vital step, as it reflects the sincerity of one’s repentance through concrete changes in behavior.

Furthermore, embracing a new life signifies the fruit of genuine repentance. This isn’t just about turning away from old habits, but also about stepping into a new identity defined by righteousness and obedience to God. This transformation is akin to a new birth—starting anew with perspectives and objectives aligned with divine will.

Significantly, this process includes the assurance of immortality and eternal life through Jesus Christ, which provides not only a future hope but also a present motivation to live a life that is pleasing to God. The promise of eternal life elevates the purpose and end goal of our earthly journey, placing it within the context of God’s eternal plan.

Also critical is the receiving of a new heart—one that desires righteousness and sincerely seeks to uphold God’s standards¹³. This new heart is a cornerstone of ongoing spiritual growth and sanctification, continually drawing a believer closer to the divine.

The sacred ordinance of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins marks both an initiation and a continual reminder of the covenant and commitment a believer has made to forsake the old and embrace the new life in Christ. It’s a profound testament to the sincerity of one’s repentance and a public declaration of faith.

Lastly, there’s a renewed desire for righteousness, which perpetually fuels the believer’s journey towards spiritual maturity and faithfulness. This desire is essential for continuous growth and effective witness to the transformative power of the gospel.

Each of these fruits is not just an end but also a means to deepen one’s relationship with God and manifest His kingdom here on earth. As we experience these fruits in our lives, we not only fulfill the scriptural mandates but also embody the living testimony of God’s redeeming work through Christ.

Drawing from my experience and understanding of the Gospel’s principles, it’s clear that genuine repentance involves an ongoing process of self-examination, vulnerability, accountability, and continual realignment with God’s will. It requires an openness to correction and an earnest effort to amend one’s life, reflecting both the depth of God’s grace and the strength of our commitment to live in accordance with His word.

Repentance Leads to Receiving Great Joy in Our Souls

Repentance, as elegantly outlined in Mosiah 4:11-16, isn’t merely an act of self-denial or an admission of wrongdoing. Rather, it is an essential transformation that begins with an acute awareness of God’s infinite goodness and our own flaws. This scripture beautifully illustrates that when we truly repent, we don’t just confess; we fundamentally change, beginning with a “taste of his love” leading to the “remission of our sins,” which culminates in an “exceedingly great joy in [our] souls.”¹⁴

In today’s climate, choosing to seek repentance is not just an act of compassion—it’s a revolutionary one. This choice to engage in the process of repentance and forgiveness allows us to move beyond cycles of guilt, shame, and resentment, opening paths to healing and joy that align with the teachings of Christ. Unrepentance and unforgiveness, on the other hand, is a heavy burden—it clouds judgment, saps energy, and erodes our mental and spiritual health. It keeps us chained to the past, inhibiting the abundant life promised in John 10:10 where Christ speaks of a life characterized by fullness, not the destruction found in resentment.

From my own journey, I’ve learned that genuine repentance is indeed a sign of profound courage and strength. It was only when I faced my own spiritual emptiness and inability to manage my life that I fully grasped the necessity and transformative power of true repentance. This personal experience echoes the broader scriptural promise that real repentance frees us from spiritual bondage, allowing for emotional and spiritual renewal.

Firstly, repentance gifts us with compassion and empathy, replacing distressing thoughts with empowering ones. This leads to improved mental resilience and a reduction in stress and anxiety¹⁵. Secondly, it deepens our connection with the Divine, aligning us more closely with God’s will, as highlighted in 2 Chronicles 7:14, which promises that turning from our wicked ways and seeking God brings healing and forgiveness.

Moreover, genuine repentance involves a sincere turning away from sin, as seen in the life of King David (Psalm 51). It’s not just about feeling sorrowful but about seeking a new heart, a renewal that brings joy as we are restored. This joy isn’t fleeting but is a profound and lasting peace, a relief from the burdens we’ve carried and a step towards living a meaningful life before God and others.

In essence, genuine repentance is transformative. It not only restores our relationship with God but also enhances our relationships with others through humility and transparency, leading to healthier, more fulfilling connections.

Thus, embracing repentance is not about dwelling in sorrow; it is about experiencing liberation and joy. It is about turning from our past and moving towards a future filled with hope and the infinite love of God. This is the joy of repentance—freedom, renewal, and a profound joy that permeates our very souls.

Repentance and Forgiveness leads toward Genuine Charity

Repentance and forgiveness are foundational to the Christian ethos, deeply intertwined with the practice of charity. The process of repentance, when genuine, culminates in a spiritual renewal—wherein one receives a remission of sins. Following this spiritual renewal, forgiveness from others and self-forgiveness restores and reconcile us, not only to God but to the community at large. This sense of restored unity is what propels us toward acts of charity¹⁶.

This dynamic is powerfully captured in Mosiah 4:16-30, which teaches us to live in harmony and offer support to the vulnerable and needy within our circles. As we experience the liberating grace of forgiveness, our hearts turn outward—to our families, our faith communities, and society in general. This outward orientation is a natural expression of the gratitude and love we feel from being forgiven and accepted.

Charity, as we learn from scriptures and teachings, involves more than mere good intentions. It is an active engagement in meeting the immediate needs of others. For example, Matthew 25:35 and Hebrews 13:12 urge us to remember the poor, feed the hungry, and show hospitality—sometimes to angels unawares. Such scripture passages underscore the idea that our acts of kindness might very well serve divine purposes beyond our understanding.

Moreover, it’s important to emphasize that charity should not be performed for self-glorification or social media recognition, as sometimes seen in viral philanthropy videos. True charity is discreet and sincere, motivated by genuine compassion rather than the desire for public accolade or divine reward (Proverbs 9:17).

James 2:15-16 and Romans 12:13 exhort us to move beyond verbal expressions of empathy, encouraging us to practical action—sharing our resources with those in need, whether it be food, clothing, shelter, or emotional support. This kind of active charity is not just beneficial to the recipients but fulfilling and spiritually enriching to the giver as well.

From personal experiences of both receiving and giving charity, I’ve learned about the profound impact simple acts of kindness can have. Engaging in charity, especially toward those facing adversity, is not just about alleviating their immediate suffering. It is also about affirmation, about sending a message of hope and solidarity.

Repentance and forgiveness do indeed pave the way for charity. They cleanse and prepare the heart for genuine service and sacrifice. The teachings of Mosiah and the examples from other scriptures provide a blueprint for this, urging us to eschew judgment and bias, and instead, embrace a lifestyle of empathy and practical assistance. As we integrate these principles into our lives, we not only grow closer to God but become agents of his love in the world.

Understanding the Principle of Doing All Things in Wisdom and Order

The concept of doing all things in wisdom and order, as highlighted in Mosiah 4:27-28 and emphasized by King Benjamin, encourages us to approach our duties and responsibilities with a balanced and thoughtful mindset¹⁷. This principle isn’t just a lofty ideal; it’s a practical guideline that can dramatically influence our daily lives and spiritual growth.

Implementing Wisdom and Order in Daily Life

First, recognizing our covenants and commitments leads us to a life of integrity and purpose. As we engage in nurturing our children, serving others, and fulfilling our church callings, it’s crucial to balance these responsibilities without overextending ourselves. Wisdom instructs us not to “run faster than [we have] strength,” which I’ve personally learned is vital in avoiding burnout and maintaining direction in life.

Moreover, persistence and consistency are key in our spiritual practices—from scripture study to service. The reminder that “he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22) encourages us to persist through challenges, knowing that faithfulness brings internal peace and divine promises, even during trials.

Recognizing Personal Capacity and Limitations

Understanding our unique capacities is also integral. Not everyone is meant to carry the same burdens, and scriptures like Mark 12:41-44 teach us that our efforts are measured by our faithfulness and growth, not merely by the volume of our output. This was a pivotal realization for me as I grappled with feeling overwhelmed by taking on too much. Learning to assess my own gifts and limitations helped me focus on what I could manage effectively, leading to more meaningful contributions and less stress.

Achieving Balance through Self-awareness and Wise Counsel

Balancing competing priorities requires self-awareness and wisdom. This doesn’t come automatically; it involves an ongoing process of prayer, meditation, and seeking counsel from others. For me, this meant learning to say no to certain opportunities in order to prioritize others more aligned with my spiritual and personal goals. It’s about making hard choices that align more closely with my faith and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Prioritizing According to Life’s Seasons

Finally, recognizing and prioritizing life’s seasons, as Ecclesiastes 3 suggests, is crucial. There are times when our focus must shift according to the needs of the moment, whether they be family, work, or spiritual commitments. Here, the challenge of procrastination often arises. I’ve found that being more organized and thoughtful about my time management not only helps in my professional life but enhances my spiritual well-being.

Incorporating the principle of doing all things in wisdom and order into our lives means more than just following a set of rules; it involves a deep, personal journey of understanding our duties, capabilities, and the seasons of our life. This approach has not only brought a renewed sense of peace and joy into my life but has also allowed me to serve more effectively in all aspects, confirming that when we align our lives with divine principles, the path forward is clearer and more fulfilling.

How I have applied the principles of Mosiah 4:1-30 in my own life

Applying the principles of Mosiah 4:1-30 in our lives is as transformative today as it was in ancient times when King Benjamin delivered his profound sermon. Drawing from personal experience, I can attest that the path to deepening our trust in God begins with earnestly inviting His presence into our daily activities.

King Benjamin’s invitation to believe in and trust God starts with recognizing the goodness of God, as was the case for his people in Mosiah 4:1–3. My personal journey has been marked by similar instances where reflecting on my experiences with God has greatly enriched my understanding of His goodness and mercy. These moments, whether they be through prayer, service, or during times of trial, have reinforced my belief in His divine nature and perfect love.

To deepen this trust, I follow the counsel given by King Benjamin about monitoring our thoughts, words, and deeds. By contemplating how my actions and thoughts align with God’s will, I am constantly reminded of my relationship with Him and the impact of my conduct on others. This introspective approach helps me “watch myself” effectively, ensuring that I live a life that is reflective of my faith and values.

When it comes to understanding God’s attributes, scriptures like Jeremiah 32:17 and 1 John 4:8 is invaluable. They describe God as omnipotent and love itself, which inspires me to trust in His plan and timing. By studying these passages, I’ve compiled a list of attributes that guide me in becoming more like Him, fostering a deeper connection and reliance on His divine guidance.

Listening to and responding to the Holy Spirit is another crucial aspect. My commitment to obedience has opened up many opportunities for growth and guidance from the Holy Spirit. This has been especially true in moments of decision-making or when seeking to overcome challenges, confirming that the Spirit is a constant companion for those who invite and heed its promptings.

Repentance has been a transformative process in my life. Acknowledging my weaknesses and seeking forgiveness allows me to experience the healing and restorative power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. This ongoing process not only helps mend my relationship with God but also teaches me about His endless grace and mercy.

Lastly, showing charity and empathy towards others has allowed me to act on Christlike love. Serving others without seeking anything in return has brought immense joy and satisfaction, reinforcing the teachings of King Benjamin about the joy and blessings that come from the remission of sins.

By integrating these principles from Mosiah 4:1-30, I have experienced an incredible transformation in my life. Each step taken in faith has opened new horizons of knowledge and closeness with God, embedding a profound sense of peace and purpose in all that I do. I encourage all to delve into these teachings, as they hold the power to profoundly change lives and bring us closer to our Heavenly Father.

ENDNOTES

1. Strong’s Concordance – Hebrew Shemittah ↩︎
2. Strongs Concordance – Greek aphesis ↩︎
3. See the Topical Guide, FEAR ↩︎
4. Elder David A. Bednar, April 2015 General Conference Address: “Therefore, They Hushed Their Fears. ↩︎
5. the term “carnal state” refers to being related to or given over to crude bodily pleasures and appetites. This encompasses both physical and sensual aspects of human experience. In a broad definition, it is descriptive of what is considered worldly or temporal. A spiritual context, this appears to contrast with spirituality. It represents a focus on material pleasures and desires, as opposed to a higher state of being and mindset. A carnal mind is one that prioritizes worldly concerns over spiritual matters at the expense of our spiritual growth and journey as Christians. ↩︎
6. Regeneration: The act by which a person is born again. Baptism is called the “washing of regeneration” (Titus 3:5), because through it one’s sins are washed away, and one becomes renewed through the Holy Spirit. See also Matt. 19:28; John 1:13; 3:3–5; Eph. 4:22–24; 1 Pet. 1:3. ↩︎
7. Brent L. Top, “Spiritual Rebirth: Have Ye Been Born of God?” in The Book of Mormon and the Message of the Four Gospels, ed. Ray L. Huntington and Terry B. Ball (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2001), 201–17. ↩︎
8. See Elder Kim B. Clark – “The Redeeming and Strengthening Power of the Saviors Atonement” April 2016 Ensign. See Also Elder Clark’s full BYU-Idaho Devotional – “All Things Which are Good Cometh of Christ” given winter of 2015. ↩︎
9. Aaron Schade, “The Strait and Narrow Path: The Covenant Path of Discipleship Leading to the Tree of Life,” in The Things Which My Father Saw: Approaches to Lehi’s Dream and Nephi’s Vision (2011 Sperry Symposium), ed. Daniel L. Belnap, Gaye Strathearn, and Stanley A. Johnson (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2011), 135–60 ↩︎
10. Top, Brent L., “Faith Unto Repentance” in A Book of Mormon Treasury: Gospel Insights from General Authorities and Religious Educators, (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2003), 295–315. ↩︎
11. Edward L. Kimball, “Confession in LDS Doctrine and Practice” published in the BYU Studies Quarterly, Vol 36, Issue 2 ↩︎
12. Stephen W. Owen, General Conference Address October 2017, “Repentance is Always Positive ↩︎
13. Elder Dale G. Renlund, “Preserving the Heart’s Mighty Change“, October 2009 General Conference Address. Elder Wilford W. Andersen, “Receiving and Retaining a Mighty Change“, April 2012 General Conference Address ↩︎
14. Elder Dale G. Renlund, “Repentance: A Joyful Choice” from the October 2016 General Conference. See “The Joy and Gift of Repentance” from the October 2022 edition of the Liahona. See Elder D. Todd Christofferson, “The Divine Gift of Repentance“, from the October 2011 General Conference ↩︎
15. Morgan, David T. “Latter-Day Saint Psychologist: Anxiety and Depression Are Not Sins (but the Savior’s Atonement Still Helps).” LDS Living, LDS Living, 29 Sept. 2020 ↩︎
16. Christenson, Kellie. “Following Christ’s Example: Caring for Those in Need.” Homepage – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Liahona Magazine, 26 Apr. 2023 ↩︎
17. Adapted from Taggart, John C. “All Things in Wisdom and Order.” Ensign August 2010, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1 Aug. 2010 ↩︎