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Book of Mormon Commentary
Alma Chapter 19
Alma 19:98 Now repentance could not come unto men, except there were a punishment, which also was
as eternal as the life of the soul should be, affixed opposite to the plan of happiness, which was as
eternal also as the life of the soul.
Lehi said, “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things" (2 Nephi 1:81). This is
involved in the principle of agency. If there is no alternative, man has no choice. Again, unless
there is a violation of divine law, there would be no sin, for "sin is the transgression of the law" (I
John 3:4) .Law is of no consequence unless a penalty is attached for its violation ( Alma 19: 99). It
is punishment which brings "remorse of conscience," not just that the sinner is caught (100).
Justice and mercy have no claim upon the wrongdoer, unless there be a law which may apply to
the evil deed (103).
Alma 19:104 But there is a law given and a punishment affixed, and repentance granted; which
repentance, mercy claimeth: otherwise, justice claimeth the creature, and executeth the law, and the law
inflicteth the punishment; if not so, the works of justice would be destroyed, and God would cease to be
God.
This is a pro- found statement which is demonstrated in civil government as well as God's
government. It is based on principles that are eternal. However, divine law goes further in that the
atonement of Christ brought about the resurrection of the dead, by which men may come again
into God's presence, to be judged and rewarded "according to their works," and "the law and
justice- ...None but the truly penitent are saved" (106).
Then Alma addresses a last appeal to Corianton. "O my son, whosoever will come, may come, and
partake of the waters of life freely; and whosoever will not come, the same is not compelled to
come; but in the last day it shall be restored unto him, according to his deeds” (109, 110).
Alma 19:112 And now, my son, I desire that ye should let these things trouble you no more, and only
let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance.
Alma was capable of plain speaking. and was a good teacher. "Deny the justice of God no more.
Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least point, because of your sins" (114). In spite of his
past, and with no recorded evidence of a change of heart, Corianton is reminded of his call of God
to preach the word. Alma admonishes him to " go thy way, declare the word with truth and
soberness" (116). This young man was greatly blessed in having such a wise, patient, and loving
man for his father.