Gospel Principles
Unit 6: The Gospel of Jesus Christ
Chapter 19: Repentance
Concept 2: What is Repentance
"Repentance is the way provided for us to become free from our sins and receive forgiveness for them. Sins slow our spiritual progression and can even stop it. Repentance makes it possible for us to grow and develop spiritually again.
The privilege of repenting is made possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ. In a way we do not fully understand, Jesus paid for our sins. President Joseph Fielding Smith said of this:
"I have suffered pain, you have suffered pain, and sometimes it has been quite severe; but I cannot comprehend pain... that would cause the blood, like sweat, to come out upon the body. It was something terrible, something terrific...
"There was no man ever born into this world that could have stood under that weight of the load that was upon the Son of God, when he was carrying my sins and yours and making it possible that we might escape from our sins" (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:130-31).
Repentance sometimes requires great courage, much strength, many tears, unceasing prayers, and untiring efforts to live the commandments of the Lord.
Discussion
What does the word repentance mean to you?"