265 Unique and Exclusive
Gifts of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

103

EVERY Knee Shall Bow/EVERY Tongue Confess

In the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the declaration that "every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is the Christ" (Philippians 2:10-11; Romans 14:11; Doctrine & Covenants 88:104) is a testament to the universal recognition of the Savior’s divine mission. This prophetic statement emphasizes the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ as the Redeemer and Judge of all humankind, underscoring His central role in the plan of salvation and the eternal destiny of every individual.

Latter-day Saint teachings affirm that Jesus Christ is the Only Begotten Son of God, who performed the infinite Atonement to provide redemption for all of God's children. The acknowledgment of His divine role by every person, whether in mortality or in the spirit world, is viewed not merely as an eventuality but as the natural and inevitable outcome of His glorified state and the eternal truths He embodies.

The eventual confession of Jesus Christ’s divinity and authority is understood to occur in conjunction with His Second Coming and the Final Judgment. During these events, all humanity will recognize Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, irrespective of their beliefs or actions during mortality. For those who have accepted Him and lived His teachings, this acknowledgment will be an occasion of joy and vindication. For those who have rejected Him, it will be a moment of solemn realization and reverence before His infinite power and righteousness.

This universal recognition will not be coerced but will stem from a profound, undeniable awareness of Christ’s divine mission and authority. Brigham Young and other Church leaders have taught that the circumstances of the Second Coming and the events of the Millennium will leave no doubt about the reality of Jesus Christ’s identity. Even those who rebelled against Him will ultimately bow and confess, though their acknowledgment will come with the sorrow of missed opportunities rather than the peace of a joyful reunion.

The concept of every knee bowing and every tongue confessing also reflects the Church's belief in the broad reach of God’s plan for His children. Through missionary work, vicarious ordinances for the dead, and the proclamation of the gospel in the spirit world, the truths of salvation will eventually be presented to every individual. Those who choose to accept these truths will embrace the gospel fully, while others will acknowledge Christ’s divinity but forfeit the blessings of exaltation through their unwillingness to abide by His teachings.

This understanding differs significantly from the views held by many other Christian traditions. While traditional Christian theology often limits the acknowledgment of Christ’s divine mission to those who accept Him during mortality, Latter-day Saint teachings extend this moment to include the entirety of God’s family across all dispensations and locations. The assurance that every individual will one day come to an understanding of Jesus Christ’s role as the Redeemer affirms the fairness, inclusivity, and universality of God’s plan of salvation.

This belief provides a unique source of hope for all of God’s children. It assures believers that the truths of the gospel will ultimately be vindicated and recognized on a universal scale. At the same time, it encourages humility and compassion, emphasizing the sacred worth of all individuals, regardless of their current beliefs or circumstances. The doctrine also affirms the divine justice and mercy inherent in God’s dealings, highlighting His commitment to granting every soul the opportunity to know His Son and choose the path of righteousness.