Salvation is a common term that can be found in the scriptures. It is also a common discussion point for many religious denominations across the globe and is used in various ways. Most of the time, it refers to being saved from sin and rising from the dead during the resurrection. For Mormons, there are six meanings that can be attributed to the term salvation.

Salvation from Physical Death

One of the blessings of the Atonement is salvation from physical death. We will all be resurrected, which means that our bodies and spirits will reunite again. This blessing is available to all, regardless of the choices we make in this life. In this perspective, we are all saved.

Salvation from Sin

Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be cleansed from sin when we exercise faith on the power of the Atonement, be baptized, receive the gift of the Holy Ghost through proper priesthood authority, and repent. This salvation is conditional. Only when we follow Jesus Christ and repent of our sins can we be redeemed or saved from our sins.

Being Born again

We are taught in the scriptures that we “must be born again” to inherit the kingdom of God. And being born again means that we must “be born of water and of the Spirit.” This spiritual rebirth occurs as we enter the waters of baptism and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (also referred to as baptism by fire). Spiritual rebirth does not only happen once. The covenants we make during baptism can be renewed when we partake of the Sacrament every Sunday.

Salvation from Ignorance

There are people who don’t know the gospel of Jesus Christ because it is not available to them. These people live their lives not knowing the light that the gospel brings. The people who have knowledge of the fullness of the gospel are saved from this ignorance.

Salvation from the Second Death

Second death means the spiritual death or being cut off from the presence of Heavenly Father forever. The Atonement of Jesus Christ saves us from this death. But there are those who will not be redeemed from this death. These people are the “sons of perdition who deny the Son after the Father has revealed him.”

Eternal Life or Exaltation. In this state, we will dwell with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ forever. We will inherit the highest degree of the Celestial kingdom. This salvation requires that “men receive the Melchizedek Priesthood, and that all Church members make and keep sacred covenants in the temple, including the covenant of eternal marriage.” This salvation is conditional.

Read more about Salvation here.