Review
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Title: The Continuous Atonement For Teens
Author: Brad Wilcox
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Inspirational
Year Published: 2015
Number of Pages: 164
Binding: Paperback
ISBN13: 978-1-62972-016-6
Price: $14.99
Reviewed by Trudy Thompson for the Association For Mormon Letters
There are few topics that are more complex, less understood, more debated, analyzed and studied, than the subject of the atonement. Adults struggle and reach for a deeper understanding to unlock all the mysteries of the atonement, and what it truly means and can do in our individual lives. They strive to teach children of all ages to understand the importance of the sacrifice that only the Lord Jesus Christ could fulfill.
The doctrine of the atonement embraces and encompasses all other gospel doctrines. It is considered to be the most transcendent and important event in the history of Christendom, and of the world. It is the foundation of the entire gospel of Jesus Christ. The atoning sacrifice of the Lord is the keystone foundation upon which all truth rests, and all things grow out of it, and come because of it.
Because of the necessity of all ages to understand the atonement, Brad Wilcox has written another book on the topic- this time for teens. In this new book, he has sought to teach by explanation, example and portrayal. He teaches by using excellent examples, inspiring true stories, and encouraging messages of faith and hope. *The Continuous Atonement For Teens* clarifies what the atonement is-and what it is not. This small volume corrects misconceptions and offers hope to those who struggle again and again with sin, repentance, and forgiveness.
In a chapter titled “However Long It Takes,” Mr. Wilcox relates the painful story that we all have witnessed at one time or another, of a young deacon struggling to offer the sacramental prayers word for word. When a mistake is made, the deacon looks to the bishop for guidance, who will either indicate it was stated correctly, or he will nod for him to start over. The bishop has the responsibility to verify that each prayer is spoken flawlessly. However, if the deacon continues to make mistakes, he is not replaced, ridiculed, or rejected. Even though the sacrament prayers have to be perfect, and that expectation cannot be lowered, the priest is given a second chance, and a third, or however many chances it takes to get it right.
Just like the bishop, God cannot lower the standard that we ultimately become perfect, but he can give us many opportunities to start over again. Like the young priest, we are given more time to correct our mistakes. And, as we continue in the direction of that goal, continuous progress is only possible through the continuous atonement.
Each chapter of this book opens with a question for readers to ask themselves, as well as subheadings to clarify the content and intent of that section. A “prepare to teach/share” section helps readers to internalize and share what they are learning with others.
This volume is an excellent resource for all ages on the important topic of the atonement. Don’t let the title fool you. This takes a difficult and misunderstood gospel principle, and simplifies, explains, and instructs all of us who wish to be devoted followers of Jesus Christ, and shows us the way to truly apply the atonement of our Savior, to heal our hearts, minds, and bodies, as we daily strive to be more like Him. As we seek to study and understand this all important doctrine, this book will help us understand and teach others that, thanks to our Redeemer’s continuous atonement, and with His constant help, we can ultimately be counted as perfect.