Supposed contradictions in LDS scripture/2 Nephi 31

Criticism

Critics claim that 2 Nephi 31꞉7 and DC 20꞉37 are contradictory because of the order in which one is said to be forgiven—before or after baptism by water.

Source(s) of the criticism

•  ^{[needs work]}

The scripture text

2 Nephi 31:7

D&C 20:37

Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost.

And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism—All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church.

Response

These scriptures are not contradictory, for at least three reasons, any one of which is sufficient to disprove the claim.

Endnotes

1. {{note|js.199]} Joseph Smith, Jr., Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, selected by Joseph Fielding Smith, (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Company, 1976), 199. off-site