Repentance, as understood by LDS doctrine, is the process of turning away from sin and returning to God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It is a process by which individuals can come closer to God, receive forgiveness for their sins, and ultimately progress on their journey toward eternal life.
Repentance is closely tied to faith in the Atonement. A favorite scripture supporting this concept is found in the Book of Mormon: “And thus he shall bring salvation to all those who shall believe on his name; this being the intent of this last sacrifice, to bring about the bowels of mercy, which overpowereth justice and bringeth about means unto men that they may have faith unto repentance” (Alma 34:15-16).
The Lord has also revealed: “Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more. By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them” (D&C 58:42-43)
Repentance is not a natural or comfortable path but is a necessary one for spiritual healing. As one develops true faith and gains deeper understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, repentance becomes a beautiful aspect of this mortal life through the feelings of the Spirit and the love of Christ that accompany the repentance process.
Access to God’s Grace
Repentance is the means by which individuals access God’s grace and receive forgiveness for their sins. As taught in the Book of Mormon: “For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23). Repentance is a key part of what individuals can do to access God’s saving grace.
Repentance leads to spiritual growth and progression. It’s not just about being forgiven for past mistakes but also about becoming a better disciple of Christ. The process of repentance helps individuals develop greater faith, humility, and reliance on the Savior.
Our ultimate goal is to return to the presence of God and become like Him. Repentance is a necessary step in this journey. As taught by President Russell M. Nelson, “The purpose of mortal life for the children of God is to provide the experiences needed ‘to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny.’”
The Role of the Bishop
The bishop is a key figure in the process of repentance, especially in cases of more serious sins.
The bishop holds priesthood authority as a judge in Israel, representing the Savior in guiding individuals along the path of repentance. The bishop’s involvement is not the source of forgiveness but is a crucial part of the process, signaling one’s sincere intent to repent.
The doctrine is taught in Doctrine and Covenants: “And also to be a judge in Israel… to sit in judgment upon transgressors upon testimony as it shall be laid before him according to the laws” (D&C 107:72). This is consistent with the Savior’s declaration to his apostles that “whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained” (John 20:23).
The bishop serves as a trusted spiritual counselor to members of the ward. Through prayer and seeking inspiration, he can provide guidance and encouragement to those who are struggling with sin or seeking to improve their lives.