The Plan of Salvation

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that the Atonement of Jesus Christ allows us to overcome the effects of the Fall of Adam and Eve, as well as the effects of our own sins:
“As a result of Adam’s transgression, mortals were separated from God (see Romans 6:23) and would be forever unless a way was found to break the bands of death. This would not be easy, for it required the vicarious sacrifice of one who was sinless and who could therefore take upon Himself the sins of all mankind.
“Thankfully, Jesus Christ courageously fulfilled this sacrifice in ancient Jerusalem. … Jesus suffered willingly so that we might all have the opportunity to be washed clean—through having faith in Him, repenting of our sins, being baptized by proper priesthood authority, receiving the purifying gift of the Holy Ghost by confirmation, and accepting all other essential ordinances” (“The Atonement and the Value of One Soul,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2004, 84–85).

President Gordon B. Hinckley testified of the significance of Jesus Christ as the central figure in the plan of salvation:

“[Jesus Christ’s] Atonement is the greatest event in human history. There is nothing to compare with it. It is the most fundamental part of our Father’s plan for the happiness of His children. Without it, mortal life would be a dead-end existence with neither hope nor future”  (“Inspirational Thoughts,” Ensign,Sept. 2007, 8; see also John 3:16).