The three foundational pillars intricately linked to Jesus Christ's eternal role and the plan of salvation are the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement. These profound events are considered the bedrock upon which all things rest, forming the essential framework of God's dealings with humanity and central to Jesus Christ's mission.
Understanding the Pillars of Eternity Central to Christ
These three pillars represent a sequence of divine events critical to understanding the purpose of life and the path back to God. They are not merely historical occurrences but fundamental principles that underpin Christian theology and the eternal progress of humankind, with Jesus Christ playing the pivotal role in each.
| Pillar | Description | Jesus Christ's Role |
|---|---|---|
| Creation | The organization of the universe and the earth for human habitation. | As the Lord, Jesus Christ (Jehovah) directed and implemented the Father's plan for creation. |
| The Fall | The consequence of Adam and Eve partaking of forbidden fruit, introducing mortality and spiritual death. | His Atonement overcomes the effects of the Fall, providing a way back to God. |
| The Atonement | Jesus Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection, conquering sin and death. | The central act of salvation, performed by Him to redeem all mankind. |
Deep Dive into Each Pillar
These pillars are interconnected, demonstrating a coherent divine plan that culminates in the saving power of Jesus Christ.
The Creation
The Creation refers to the bringing into existence of the heavens, the earth, and all life upon it, as planned by God the Father. This event provided the necessary setting for humanity to gain experience and progress.
- Significance: It established the physical world and laws necessary for mortal existence, including the opportunity for human beings to gain bodies and experience joy, sorrow, and growth.
- Jesus's Role: In many Christian traditions, particularly those that emphasize His pre-mortal divinity, Jesus Christ (often identified as the Word or Jehovah) was the executive agent under the Father's direction through whom all things were created. He was the master architect and builder, bringing the Father's plan into reality. This highlights His divine power and authority from the very beginning. Learn more about the Creation.
The Fall
The Fall refers to the transition of Adam and Eve from an innocent, immortal state in the Garden of Eden to a mortal state, characterized by physical death, spiritual separation from God, and the ability to choose between good and evil. This event was a necessary part of the divine plan, enabling humanity to learn, grow, and exercise agency.
- Significance: It introduced mortality, procreation, and the knowledge of good and evil, making eternal progression possible. Without the Fall, humanity could not have experienced joy, sorrow, or had children.
- Jesus's Role: The Fall necessitated a Redeemer. Jesus Christ's Atonement was pre-ordained to overcome the effects of the Fall, providing forgiveness for sin and resurrection from physical death. He is the one who enables humanity to return to God's presence, despite the consequences of the Fall. Explore the concept of The Fall.
The Atonement
The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the central act of the divine plan, through which Jesus Christ suffered, died, and was resurrected, thereby overcoming sin and death. It provides the means for all humanity to be reconciled with God and return to His presence.
- Significance: It is the ultimate act of divine love and justice, offering mercy and forgiveness for sins, enabling personal repentance and spiritual cleansing. It also ensures the resurrection of all people from death.
- Jesus's Role: The Atonement is exclusively Jesus Christ's work. He voluntarily offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, experiencing immense suffering for the sins of all humanity, breaking the bands of death, and making eternal life possible for those who follow Him. It is the core of His identity as the Savior and Redeemer. Understand the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
These three pillars work in concert, revealing a comprehensive divine strategy centered on the eternal work and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
