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But when it comes to grace/works LDS prophets and apostles make it clear that both are necessary.
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I find this kind of language really unhelpful... sometimes even shallow, because it misses a big issue: In what
sense are they necessary? Are works simply necessary as an evidence of the authenticity of one's faith, or are they also part of necessary prerequisite merit for receiving forgiveness and eternal life?
In other words, most everyone agrees that faith and works have a indispensable relationship, but the big issue is: What
kind of relationship do they have?
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"Each of us has been sent to earth by our Heavenly Father to merit eternal life" - Robert D. Hales, "Personal Revelation: The Teachings and Examples of the Prophets", October 2007 General Conference
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"Thus, brothers and sisters, along with the great and free gift of the universal and personal resurrection there is also the personal possibility of meriting eternal life." - Neal A. Maxwell, “Apply the Atoning Blood of Christ” Ensign, Nov 1997, 22; message from October 1997 General Conference
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Even with Mormonism's doctrine of necessary gracious opportunity and necessary gracious assistance, it is still a relentless merit system.
What popular LDS apostle and educator John Widtsoe wrote is still true:
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"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is in full opposition to any doctrine which does not require man, and provide him with the means, to earn his way daily, to earthly and heavenly joys."
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http://www.mrm.org/topics/documents-...t-john-widtsoe