Episode 129: Justification by Faith (Stephan Taeger)

How can educators help students stop fearing their sins and start trusting Christ? In this episode, Professor Stephan Taeger discusses his article “Declared Guiltless: Justification by Faith in the Latter-day Saint Classroom.” He explores how teaching justification by faith can transform our classrooms. Addressing both guilt-ridden and morally indifferent students, he clarifies the doctrine using scripture, prophetic teachings, and scholarly insights. Taeger explains how understanding grace and justification fosters peace, inspires obedience, and strengthens discipleship. He offers practical teaching models that help students internalize their justified state and live with hope, love, and purpose. This episode empowers gospel educators to teach grace with clarity and conviction.

Publications:

• “Declared Guiltless: Justification by Faith in the Latter-day Saint Classroom,” Religious Educator, 25.2, 2024
• Joseph Smith as a Visionary: Heavenly Manifestations in the Latter Days, Religious Studies Center, 2025
• “By Our Own Transgressions: Understanding God’s Punishment,” in This Great and Lasting War: Studies in Alma 45–63, Religious Studies Center, 2025
• “The Word Made Flesh: Teaching the Gospel Concretely,” Religious Educator, 18.1, 2017
• “Using Elements of Narrative to Engage Students,” Religious Educator, 16.3, 2015

Click here to learn more about Stephan Taeger