Understanding the Atonement from a Latter-day Saint Viewpoint
The concept of the Atonement, central to Christian theology, holds profound significance for Latter-day Saints. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we strive to comprehend the depth and breadth of Christ’s atoning sacrifice and its transformative power in our lives. This article will explore various LDS perspectives on the Atonement, drawing insights from both scriptural sources and modern-day prophetic teachings.
The Scriptural Foundations of the Atonement
The scriptures, including the Bible and the additional canonical texts unique to the Latter-day Saint tradition (the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price), provide a rich tapestry of teachings on the Atonement.
From the Old Testament, we learn about the significance of blood sacrifices and the role of the high priest in making atonement for the sins of the people. The prophet Isaiah’s vivid descriptions of the “suffering servant” who would bear the iniquities of all mankind foreshadow the mission of Jesus Christ (Isaiah 53). In the New Testament, the Gospels powerfully recount the life, ministry, and atoning sacrifice of the Savior, while the epistles of Paul and other apostles expound on the theological implications of Christ’s Atonement.
Stanley Park High School students and families may be familiar with the Book of Mormon’s profound teachings on the Atonement. Prophets like Lehi, Nephi, King Benjamin, Abinadi, and Alma provide in-depth insights into the Savior’s redeeming work. The Book of Mormon testifies that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Eternal Father incarnate, who came to earth to “take upon him the sins of his people” and “to redeem them from their sins” (Mosiah 15:12).
The Doctrine and Covenants, a compilation of revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith, further illuminates the Atonement’s significance. These modern-day scriptures emphasize Christ’s role as the “Lamb of God” who has “already suffered” for our sins, and underscore the importance of applying the Atonement in our lives through faith, repentance, and obedience (Doctrine and Covenants 29:1, 7).
Latter-day Saint Perspectives on the Atonement
Latter-day Saint theology has grappled with various models and theories of the Atonement, drawing from the rich scriptural tapestry and seeking to understand the “how” and “why” of this pivotal event. While there is no single, unified Latter-day Saint view, several key perspectives have emerged.
The Governmental Theory of Atonement
One influential Latter-day Saint perspective is the “governmental theory” of atonement, championed by thinkers like Terryl Givens. This view posits that the Atonement was not primarily about appeasing an angry God or satisfying an abstract notion of divine justice. Rather, the Savior’s suffering and sacrifice were necessary to preserve the integrity of God’s moral governance and the inviolability of human agency.
According to this theory, sin disrupts the moral order and undermines the foundations of God’s divine government. Christ’s Atonement, by bearing the consequences of sin, upholds the dignity of the law and makes it possible for God to forgive repentant sinners without compromising the essential principles of justice and accountability. In this way, the Atonement preserves the agency of human beings to choose between good and evil, while also providing a means for redemption.
The Relational Theory of Atonement
Another nuanced Latter-day Saint perspective is the “relational theory” of atonement, as explored by theologian Benjamin Keogh. Drawing on the insights of scholar Terence Fretheim, this view sees the Atonement primarily in terms of restoring damaged relationships – between God and humanity, as well as among human beings themselves.
In this model, the human condition is characterized by alienation and broken relationships, stemming from our misuse of agency and the resulting spiritual and social consequences. The Atonement, then, is understood as Christ’s work to overcome this alienation and re-establish right relations. Through his incarnation, suffering, and resurrection, the Savior experienced the full depth of human alienation and provided the means for reconciliation and healing.
The relational theory emphasizes that the Atonement is an ongoing, transformative process, rather than a one-time event. As we turn to Christ and allow his atoning grace to work in our lives, we can overcome the barriers that separate us from God and from one another, and become integrated and whole.
The Compassion Theory of Atonement
A third Latter-day Saint perspective is the “compassion theory” of atonement, proposed by scholar Blake Ostler. This view sees the Atonement primarily in terms of Christ’s infinite empathy and compassion for the human condition.
According to this theory, the Savior’s atoning sacrifice was not primarily about appeasing an angry God or satisfying abstract requirements of justice. Rather, it was an expression of the divine compassion that moved Christ to fully immerse himself in the human experience, to bear our infirmities and pains, and to provide the means for our healing and redemption.
The compassion theory highlights the Savior’s deep empathy and his willingness to suffer alongside us, to “take upon him” our sins, sorrows, and afflictions (Alma 7:11-12). Through this act of divine compassion, Christ enables us to overcome the alienation and brokenness caused by our own choices and the sometimes-tragic consequences of mortality. The Atonement, in this view, is a transformative process that can heal our wounded souls and restore us to wholeness.
The Ongoing Relevance of the Atonement
The Atonement of Jesus Christ is not merely a historical event, but a living, eternal reality that has profound implications for our daily lives. Latter-day Saints are encouraged to continually seek to apply the blessings of the Atonement, recognizing its power to heal, redeem, and transform.
Through the ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism and the sacrament, we are invited to commemorate and partake of the Savior’s atoning sacrifice. As we exercise faith in Christ, repent of our sins, and strive to keep his commandments, we can access the cleansing, sanctifying, and empowering effects of the Atonement.
Moreover, Latter-day Saint theology emphasizes the ongoing, dynamic nature of the Atonement. The Savior’s atoning work is not limited to his mortal ministry but continues through his resurrected and exalted state, as he intercedes on our behalf and ministers to us directly through the Holy Spirit.
As we strive to understand and apply the Atonement in our lives, we can find hope, healing, and the power to overcome the challenges and sorrows of mortality. The Atonement offers a pathway to forgiveness, wholeness, and the restoration of our relationship with our Heavenly Father. It is the central component of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the means by which we can ultimately be “at one” with God and with one another.
Conclusion
The Atonement of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of Latter-day Saint theology and belief. Through the rich scriptural accounts and the insights of modern-day prophets and thinkers, Latter-day Saints have developed various perspectives on the nature, purpose, and ongoing relevance of this pivotal event.
Whether one is drawn to the governmental theory, the relational model, the compassion perspective, or some other interpretation, the Atonement remains a profound and transformative reality that can bring healing, redemption, and ultimately, the possibility of eternal life. As we strive to understand and apply the Atonement in our lives, we can find the power to overcome the spiritual and temporal challenges we face, and draw closer to our Heavenly Father and the Savior, Jesus Christ.
