In Mormonism, agency is the God-given ability to choose and act for oneself. It is described as essential to the plan of salvation because without it, people could not progress, learn, or follow Jesus Christ. Agency is viewed as the foundation of personal responsibility and obedience—members are accountable for the choices they make. Since eternal rewards are believed to depend on faithful decisions and actions, agency becomes one of the most important principles supporting the system of works and progression in Mormonism. See also Choose the Right.
Biblical Christianity teaches that people, by nature, are spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1) and thoroughly evil (Genesis 8:21). Therefore, no one can seek God or do any good (Romans 3:10-12).
