Among the vast teachings of the scriptures, few doctrines are as central as the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In Alma 11:40, we find a profound declaration of the Savior’s mission:
> “And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else.”
This powerful statement invites us to reflect on Christ’s role in redemption, the requirement of faith in His name, and the promise of eternal life. Throughout this article, we will explore these concepts with historical, doctrinal, and personal examples that can strengthen our faith and help us apply this truth in our lives.
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Christ: The Center of the Plan of Salvation
Before the foundation of the world, Jesus Christ was appointed as the Savior of mankind. In the premortal council, when Heavenly Father presented His plan, the Savior willingly volunteered to fulfill it:
> “Here am I, send me” (Abraham 3:27).
He knew that the only way to redeem us was to take upon Himself our burdens, sins, and weaknesses. Throughout the scriptures, we see how prophets and apostles have testified of His central role in the Plan of Salvation. Alma 11:40 reaffirms this truth by declaring that He would come to redeem His people.
But what does it mean to be part of His people?
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Being Redeemed: More Than Believing, a Lifelong Commitment
The verse states that Christ will take upon Himself the transgressions of those who believe in His name. This detail is crucial. Redemption is not automatic; it requires faith in Christ. But faith is not just a passive belief—it is an active commitment.
Historical Example: The First Converts in the Book of Mormon
When Alma the Elder preached at the waters of Mormon, he asked those who wanted to be baptized:
> “Are ye willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light?” (Mosiah 18:8).
Those who believed in Christ did not just accept His name; they changed their lives. They decided to serve, help, and follow the Savior at all times.
The same principle applies today. Faith in Christ compels us to action. If we say we believe in Him, we must demonstrate it through our works, testimony, and way of life.
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Eternal Life: A Real Promise
The verse concludes with a powerful statement: “these are they that shall have eternal life.” This promise is the desire of all God’s children.
Jesus Himself taught:
> “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3).
Eternal life is not just existing forever. It is living in God’s presence, in a state of joy and perfection. It is the greatest gift we can receive, but it is only available to those who accept Christ as their Redeemer.
Historical Example: The Vision of Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon
In 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon had a vision of the degrees of glory. Describing those who would receive eternal life, they said:
> “They are they who received the testimony of Jesus, and believed on his name” (D&C 76:51).
This confirms what Alma taught: only those who truly believe and follow Christ will inherit the celestial kingdom.
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What About Everyone Else?
The verse also mentions a harsh reality: “salvation cometh to none else.” This phrase may seem exclusive, but it must be understood correctly.
Christ offers His Atonement to everyone, but not everyone accepts it. It is like a doctor offering a cure to a sick person, but the patient refuses to take the medicine. The Savior invites us to receive His love, but He gives us complete freedom to choose.
Personal Example: A Conversion in Honduras
When I served as a missionary in Honduras, I met a man named José. He had struggled for years with addictions and family problems. When we taught him about Jesus Christ, he felt something special but was afraid to change.
Over time, he decided to be baptized. He abandoned his bad habits and found peace in the Gospel. Years later, I learned that he was serving as a leader in his branch.
José is an example of what it means to accept Christ. Salvation is available to all, but it requires a sincere effort.
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How to Apply Alma 11:40 in Our Daily Lives
Knowing that Christ redeems us and that faith in Him leads us to eternal life, what can we do today to draw closer to Him?
1. Renew Our Faith in His Name
Christ must be the center of our lives, not just a distant idea. We can strengthen our faith through:
Sincere prayer.
Daily scripture study.
Consistent church attendance.
2. Repent and Trust in His Atonement
We all fall short, but the Savior offers us the chance to start anew. As the prophet Isaiah said:
> “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).
No matter what we have done, Christ is always willing to forgive us if we sincerely repent.
3. Help Others Come Unto Christ
If we have experienced His love, it is our duty to share it with others. This can be done by:
Inviting someone to church.
Testifying of Christ in our daily conversations.
Providing service and showing love to those around us.
The Savior has redeemed us so that we may also help others find His love.
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Conclusion: The Invitation of Christ Is Still Open
Alma 11:40 beautifully summarizes the purpose of Christ’s life. He came to redeem us, took upon Himself our transgressions, and offers eternal life to those who believe in His name.
But the most important message is that the invitation is still open. Every day, we have the opportunity to choose Christ, trust in His grace, and live according to His Gospel.
Just as José in Honduras found peace by accepting the Savior, we can too. No matter where we are on our spiritual journey, Christ is always waiting for us with open arms.
May we strengthen our faith in His name, accept His redemption, and live in such a way that we may one day receive eternal life with Him.
Are you ready to accept the invitation?
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