Applying this principle, James wrote that “if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). James’ point is that the sins being hidden are those of the minister, not just those of the one being ministered to.
Commenting on this verse, Elder Bruce R. McConkie has written: “By reclaiming an erring brother, we save both him and ourselves. Our sins are hidden (remitted) because we ministered for the salvation and blessing of another member of the kingdom. In principle this special reward for Christ’s ministers applies also to those who preach the gospel and bring souls into the kingdom. The minister is rewarded with salvation and, of necessity, in the process, is freed from his own sins.” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary 3: 279.)