3 Nephi 9

I believe the destruction that took place in the Americas is a great warning to the world with the second coming of the Savior. I find it interesting that after all this destruction of wicked, all the survivors could only respond -

"...O that we had repented before this great and terrible day..." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 8:24)

Of course, Satan never supports his people in their wickedness as the Savior said -

"...the devil laugheth, and his angels rejoice, because of the slain of the fair sons and daughters of my people; and it is because of their iniquity and abominations that they are fallen!" (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:2)

I find that statement very disturbing in such terrible circumstances. To those that did survive, the Savior said -

"O all ye that are spared because ye were more righteous than they..." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:13)

Again, the Lord considers the desires of the heart. Though they were more righteous, many were far from faithfulness, for the Savior continues -

"...will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?" (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:13)

He again teaches the plan -

"...if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:14)

"Will come" suggests agency and the personal will to change. It is important to understand that -

"...as many as have received me, to them have I given to become the sons of God; and even so will I to as many as shall believe on my name, for behold, by me redemption cometh..." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:17)

"Sons of God" ae those that receive eternal life or God's life, in other words, exaltation. The Lord concludes -

"Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:22)

Note than mercy and waiver of punishment only comes by repentance not just confession.