The final judgment is an incredibly complex concept. The issue is that morality isn’t quite so black and white, and a just and fair god would not judge based on generalization. Considering that the Gospel and celestial conduct is indeed consistent and static, but temporal conduct is as variable as time, the judgment would not logically rely upon the same criteria for each individual. However, to hold different people according to different standards would not exactly be fair either, so a balance must be struck.

In 3 Nephi, there is some doctrine regarding the judgment which helps clarify the process, even though not completely. There is still quite a bit of clarity missing about the subject, but we do understand that which is most necessary. Through the Atonement of Christ, we receive the possibility for our sins to be taken from us and placed on Jesus Christ. Through this process, Jesus is able to be an advocate on our behalf in front of the Father at the judgment day. Through our obedience to Christ’s Gospel, we are able to have His word in our defense, in spite of everything we’ve done. However, if we are not obedient to His gospel, then we can afford no such spiritual necessity.

An interesting fact of which we should take note is mentioned in 3 Nephi 27:23-27. In these verses, Christ says:

23 Write the things which ye have seen and heard, save it be those which are forbidden.

24 Write the works of this people, which shall be, even as hath been written, of that which hath been.

25 For behold, out of the books which have been written, and which shall be written, shall this people be judged, for by them shall their works be known unto men.

This is another significant point. The Father uses the testimony of His servant as a testament of individuals’ character. This way, He doesn’t just judge blindly without evidence towards challenges unique to or intensified by generational boundaries and certain epochs. He presents His judgments justified by testimony of both His earthly servants and Christ.

Knowing that Christ is our real judge by which we receive our eternal reward should be a comforting concept. He is the embodiment of love and mercy, together with the Father serving justice. Through Christ, we have been enabled to repent from our shortcomings. If we do so, Christ becomes our judge and advocate before the Father. Christ bore all things, and therefore understands our troubles, worries, afflictions, difficulties, and sins. He in some ways understands our difficulties better than we do, understanding all perspectives in this life. He also wants to save us, but only requires our obedience, faith, and sincerity. Understanding His motive also helps us to choose the right, knowing that His motive is driven by love and care.