I read somewhere that there are certain sins that the church cannot forgive. My question is if Baptism can forgive these sins, and any other sins committed before baptism? Also, can former Atheists who have previously denied the Holy Spirit be Baptised and forgiven? I hope my question isn’t annoying, and thanks for answering in advance.
One Response to “Baptism.I read somewhere that there are certain sins…”
Felipe Prado
2016-10-23 14:55:28
Jesus Christ is central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which bears His name.
Interesting question. I have to confess that I don't have a strong testimony of the "unpardonable sin." I prefer Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's view when he said, "...however late you think you are, however many chances you think you have missed, however many mistakes you feel you have made or talents you think you don't have, or however far from home and family and God you feel you have traveled, I testify that you have not traveled beyond the reach of divine love. It is not possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ's Atonement shines."
But even those Mormons who do believe that denying the Holy Spirit is an unpardonable sin wouldn't say that you are guilty of that sin. Very few people, including very few Mormons, have the full spiritual knowledge required to commit this sin. I'm certain you didn't have that full knowledge either.
Baptism is a cleaning ordinance, and it does provide people with a clean slate so they can begin new lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. This includes people from all sorts of backgrounds, including former atheists.
But even those Mormons who do believe that denying the Holy Spirit is an unpardonable sin wouldn't say that you are guilty of that sin. Very few people, including very few Mormons, have the full spiritual knowledge required to commit this sin. I'm certain you didn't have that full knowledge either.
Baptism is a cleaning ordinance, and it does provide people with a clean slate so they can begin new lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. This includes people from all sorts of backgrounds, including former atheists.
I'm happy you're interested in learning more about the church. I suggest that you chat with the Mormon missionaries. Most people who are interested in Mormonism learn about our basic beliefs from these missionaries. You can request a missionary visit online.
You can also learn the address of the Mormon chapel nearest your house online. Please don't hesitate to visit us any Sunday morning (9:00) to see how we worship. Mormons love visitors.
I hope this answer helps. All the best.