Perhaps one of the most misunderstood quotes in scripture comes in Luke 23:43. As Jesus hangs on the cross, a thief also hangs to his side, acknowledging that his punishment is just while the Savior has done no wrong. Jesus then answers, “To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.” So many have taken to heart the possibility that a deathbed repentance will lead to eternal glory, but this is not so.
According to the Prophet Joseph Smith, the aforementioned phrase meant that the Savior and the thief would be in the world of spirits that very day. At that time, Christ would be able to teach the gospel to this man, and the man would have the ability to choose to embrace or turn away from His precepts. Elder Bruce R. McConkie further elaborated, stating, “What Jesus did do was give recognition to the seeds of faith and repentance which were evidenced by a penitent man. As always, the Lord’s efforts were directed toward offering as much hope as possible to one who would turn from darkness unto the everlasting light.”
True repentance is more than words; it consists of living that repentance. We must put the sin behind us and not enter into it again. We must experience godly sorrow, the spiritual anguish of having chosen a different road than our Father in Heaven would have sent us down. We must have a change of heart and, where possible, make restitution.
True repentance is not simply saying “I’m sorry.” If you have kids, then you know how empty the words alone can be. Nothing drives me nuts faster than when one of my children hits the other, says “I’m sorry,” and then does it again. Argh!
Because we have the restored gospel, we know that those who have yet to hear Christ’s teachings are not immediately bound for darkness. Instead, they have the opportunity to listen and to choose. Although repentance and change in the spiritual world is significantly more difficult, it is possible; no one will be punished because they did not have the chance to accept the gospel.
As for us, well, we know what the Lord would desire of us. We have been cautioned not to procrastinate the day of our repentance. We know that feeble words offered in the moments before death will not counteract wicked behavior. Repentance, instead, is a constant and continuous process, one best undertaken as soon as the sin is committed. We ought make it a part of our daily prayers, as we ask forgiveness and strive to draw closer to the Lord.
Related Articles:
Gospel Doctrine: The Gift of the Sacrament
RS/EQ: Self-Justification and Repentance
RS/EQ: Ye Ought Not Procrastinate the Day of Your Repentance
General Conference: “The Atonement Can Secure Your Peace and Happiness”