The Plan of Redemption is the central theme of all the scriptures and teachings of the prophets of God. The scriptures present this plan through a collection of epistles, stories, sermons, parables, allegories, hymns, histories, expositions, dialogs, anecdotes, dreams, visions and testimonials. As a result, it is difficult to get a clear and concise picture of this comprehensive plan for mankind. This book is an attempt to bring together in an orderly fashion as many of the relevant scriptures as possible, along with prophetic commentary when needed, in a way that will help the reader gain a better understanding of what this plan consists of, and his and the Redeemer's roles in it.
In the process of bringing together so much scripture and commentary a number of important points of doctrine surfaced that are often misunderstood or which have been overlooked by most LDS students of the scriptures. These items are discussed in the extended notes section at the end of each chapter.
Some of the questions considered in the book are:
What is the relationship between God's honor and his power?
What change to the earth took place on the seventh day of creation that made the earth fit for non-mortal beings?
Were Adam and Eve given conflicting commandments in Eden?
Did mankind suffer spiritual death because of Adam and Eve's transgression in Eden?
What is the real meaning of "conditional" and "unconditional" redemption?
What are "the demands of justice" and why is it impossible for man to satisfy them?
How does the atonement "overpower" the demands of justice?
How did Christ bear the sins of the world?
What is the first death and who are redeemed from it and how is it done?
Does the atonement cover the sins of people before they receive the gospel?
What is the gospel and can it be received without ordinances?
Are the gospel and its ordinances necessary for heirs of the lesser kingdoms of glory?
What is the grace of God and when and how does it manifest in our lives?
How is Christ both our judge and advocate?
Will we all be judged according to the good and bad we do?
What does it mean to be "perfect in Christ"?
What does it mean to "make your calling and election sure"?"