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Justice

In scriptural terms, justice is the unchanging law that brings consequences for actions. Because of the law of justice, we receive blessings when we obey God's commandments. The law of justice also demands that a penalty be paid for every sin we commit.

Additional Information

When the Savior carried out the Atonement, He took our sins upon Himself. He was able to "answer the ends of the law" (2 Nephi 2:7) because He subjected Himself to the penalty that the law required for our sins. In doing so, He "satisfied the demands of justice" and extended mercy to everyone who repents and follows Him (see Mosiah 15:9; Alma 34:14–16). Because He has paid the price for our sins, we will not have to suffer that punishment if we repent (see D&C 19:15–20).

See also Atonement of Jesus Christ; Mercy; Repentance

—See True to the Faith (2004), 91–92

Scripture References

2 Nephi 9:26; Alma 42; D&C 130:20–21

Church Magazine Articles

  • "Justification and Sanctification"

    D. Todd Christofferson, Ensign, June 2001, 18–25
    Justification and sanctification are elements of a divine process that qualifies us to live in the presence of God the Father and Jesus Christ.

  • " 'Friends Again at Last': Justice and Mercy in the Warming Glow of Charity"

    Lance B. Wickman, Ensign, June 2000, 30–37
    Neither the justice nor the mercy of God can be understood, enjoyed, or emulated without understanding and practicing the undergirding principle of charity.

  • "Finding Forgiveness"

    Richard G. Scott, Ensign, May 1995, 75–77
    Through [Christ's Atonement] we can live in a world where absolute justice reigns in its sphere so the world will have order. But that justice is tempered through mercy attainable by obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

  • "Divine Forgiveness"

    Ronald E. Poelman, Ensign, Nov. 1993, 84–86
    God's justice is based upon divine laws, under which we receive what we deserve according to our disobedience or obedience to the law.

  • "The Mediator"

    Boyd K. Packer, Ensign, May 1977, 54–56
    All mankind can be protected by the law of justice, and at once each of us individually may be extended the redeeming and healing blessing of mercy.

  • "Justice and Mercy"

    James A. Cullimore, Ensign, May 1974, 29–31
    One of the basic concepts of forgiveness is that one must be truly repentant, having satisfied justice before forgiveness can take place.

Additional Online Materials