Are Mormons Christians?
Welcome to a captivating journey into the heart of Mormonism, a faith often misunderstood and sometimes mistakenly lumped together with mainstream Christianity. While sharing some superficial similarities, Mormonism harbors a unique set of doctrines that set it apart from the traditional Christian faith. In this blog series, we’ll embark on a fascinating exploration of these distinctive beliefs, delving into their origins, implications, and why they ultimately disqualify Mormonism from being considered an orthodox Christian religion. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and gain a deeper understanding of this intriguing faith.
In this blog post, we will delve into the unique theological foundations of Mormonism, examining their distinct understanding of God, Jesus Christ, salvation, and scripture. By exploring these key doctrinal differences, we aim to shed light on the complex relationship between Mormonism and traditional Christianity, and ultimately address the question: Can Mormonism truly be considered a Christian faith?
LDS Church: Are “Mormons” Christian?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unequivocally affirm themselves to be Christians. They worship God the Eternal Father in the name of Jesus Christ. When asked what the Latter-day Saints believe, Joseph Smith put Christ at the center: “The fundamental principles of our religion is the testimony of the apostles and prophets concerning Jesus Christ, ‘that he died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended up into heaven;’ and all other things are only appendages to these, which pertain to our religion.” The modern-day Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reaffirmed that testimony when they proclaimed, “Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. … His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come.”
Converts across the world continue to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in part because of its doctrinal and spiritual distinctiveness. That distinctiveness flows from the knowledge restored to this earth, together with the power of the Holy Ghost present in the Church because of restored priesthood authority, keys, ordinances, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The fruits of the restored gospel are evident in the lives of its faithful members.
While members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have no desire to compromise the distinctiveness of the restored Church of Jesus Christ, they wish to work together with other Christians—and people of all faiths—to recognize and remedy many of the moral and family issues faced by society. The Christian conversation is richer for what the Latter-day Saints bring to the table. There is no good reason for Christian faiths to ostracize each other when there has never been more urgent need for unity in proclaiming the divinity and teachings of Jesus Christ.
“Take up the Bible, compare the religion of the Latter-day Saints with it and see if it will stand the test,”
(Brigham Young, May 18, 1873,
Journal of Discourses, vol. 16, p. 46).
An examination of seven points of contrast between Mormon and Christian faith.
1. Mormon scripture teaches that all the various Christian denominations, particularly the Presbyterians, Baptists, and Methodists, are all considered by Jesus Christ to be “wrong.”
Regarding Joseph Smith’s alleged first vision, where celestial personages appeared to him…
My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner, therefore, did I get possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than I asked the personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects was right — and which I should join. I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong, and the personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in His sight: that those professors were all corrupt . . . (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, vol. 1, p. 5-6).
Of the devil…
What is it that inspires professors of Christianity generally with a hope of salvation? It is that smooth, sophisticated influence of the devil, by which he deceives the whole world, (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, compiled by Joseph Fielding Smith, p. 270).
John Taylor said…
We talk about Christianity, but it is a perfect pack of nonsens . . . Myself and hundreds of the Elders around me have seen its pomp, parade, and glory; and what is it? It is a sounding brass and a tinkling symbol; it is as corrupt as hell; and the Devil could not invent a better engine to spread his work than the Christianity of the nineteenth century, (Journal of Discourses, vol. 6, 1858, p. 167).
The Book of Mormon says. . .
And he said unto me: Behold there are save two churches only; the one is the church of the Lamb of God, and the other is the church of the devil; wherefore, whoso belongeth not to the church of the Lamb of God belongeth to that great church which is the mother of abominations; and she is the whore of all the earth. (1 Nephi 14:10).
“And when the day cometh that the wrath of God is poured out upon the mother of harlots, which is the great and abominable church of all the earth, whose foundation is the devil, then, at that day, the work of the Father shall commence. . . (1 Nephi. 14:17).
LDS Church: The Great Apostasy
Following the death of Jesus Christ, wicked people persecuted and killed many Church members. Other Church members drifted from the principles taught by Jesus Christ and His Apostles. The Apostles were killed, and priesthood authority — including the keys to direct and receive revelation for the Church — was taken from the earth. Because the Church was no longer led by priesthood authority, error crept into Church teachings. Good people and much truth remained, but the gospel as established by Jesus Christ was lost. This period is called the Great Apostasy.
Let us not forget that Joseph Smith was quick to credit himself for this amazing restoration, in spite of it being “revealed to him by God.”
I have more to boast of than ever any man had. I am the only man that has ever been able to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. I boast that no man ever did such a work as I. The followers of Jesus ran away from Him; but the Latter-day Saints never ran away from me yet. (Joseph Smith, History, 6:19)
The doctrinal origin that allowed Joseph Smith to differentiate Mormonism from orthodox Christianity stems from the belief in the Great Apostasy. This concept posits that the original Christian church, established by Jesus Christ, fell into apostasy shortly after the death of the apostles. This apostasy resulted in the corruption of essential doctrines and ordinances, leading to the fragmentation of Christianity into various denominations.
Mormonism teaches that this apostasy necessitated a restoration of the true gospel, which was initiated through Joseph Smith’s divine revelations. Smith claimed to have received direct communication from God the Father and Jesus Christ, who instructed him to restore the original church and its teachings.
This restorationist theology positions Mormonism as the “one true church,” distinct from and superior to other Christian denominations. It implies that these denominations, despite their good intentions, have deviated from the original teachings of Christ due to the Great Apostasy. This explains why Mormon scripture portrays other Christian groups as being “wrong” in the eyes of Jesus Christ.
This doctrinal foundation allows Mormonism to assert its unique claims of authority, prophetic leadership, and additional scripture (the Book of Mormon) while simultaneously acknowledging its Christian roots. It also provides a theological justification for its missionary efforts aimed at converting members of other Christian faiths.
This view is not universally accepted among Christians, with many mainstream denominations rejecting the concept of a Great Apostasy and upholding the validity of their own traditions and interpretations of scripture.
Review: Refuting the Mormon Claim of the “Great Apostasy” in Christian History
The concept of the “Great Apostasy,” central to Mormon theology as articulated by Joseph Smith, suggests that after the death of the apostles, the Christian Church fell into such complete disarray and corruption that it necessitated a divine restoration through Smith. However, this claim can be critically examined through historical, theological, and scriptural lenses:
Historical Continuity of the Church:
Contrary to the notion of a total apostasy, historical evidence shows a continuous line of Christian tradition and doctrine from the Apostolic Age through the early Church Fathers. For instance, the writings of Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp of Smyrna, who were direct disciples of the apostles, demonstrate a continuity of teaching and practice. Their letters and teachings show no indication of a cataclysmic loss of truth but rather an ongoing development and defense of Christian doctrine against heresies.
Early Church Councils:
The early ecumenical councils (e.g., Nicaea in 325 AD, Constantinople in 381 AD) were convened to clarify and defend orthodox Christian doctrine against emerging heresies, not to restore lost teachings. These councils, attended by bishops from across the Christian world, affirm the continuity and preservation of core Christian beliefs like the nature of Christ, the Trinity, and the canon of Scripture.
Scriptural Evidence:
The New Testament itself anticipates the rise of false teachers (2 Peter 2:1, Acts 20:29-30) but does not suggest a complete apostasy of the Church. Instead, it speaks of enduring faith and the preservation of truth through the Church. Jesus promised that the gates of Hades would not overcome the Church (Matthew 16:18), suggesting resilience rather than collapse.
Doctrine and Practice:
The claim of doctrinal corruption post-apostles ignores the extensive body of Christian writings from the first few centuries that align with apostolic teachings. The Didache, for example, provides insight into early Christian practices, showing continuity in liturgy, baptism, and Eucharistic celebration.
The Role of the Holy Spirit:
One of the central tenets of Christian theology is the ongoing presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit within the Church. The idea of a Great Apostasy undermines the promise that the Spirit would guide believers into all truth (John 16:13).
Diversity vs. Apostasy:
The fragmentation of Christianity into various denominations does not necessarily indicate apostasy but rather the diversity of expression within Christianity. While there have been doctrinal disagreements, the core of Christian belief in Jesus Christ’s divinity, resurrection, and the Trinity has remained consistent across orthodox branches.
Archaeological and Manuscript Evidence:
The survival and discovery of countless early Christian manuscripts, including the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Nag Hammadi library, provide a rich tapestry of Christian thought that, when studied, shows a robust defense of apostolic teachings rather than their abandonment.
In conclusion, the assertion of a “Great Apostasy” as described by Mormonism does not align with a comprehensive view of Christian history, theology, or scriptural tradition. While there have undeniably been periods of corruption or deviation, the evidence suggests a Church that has, through divine guidance and human effort, maintained and defended its core doctrines from the apostolic era onward. This continuity challenges the necessity of a complete restoration as claimed by Joseph Smith.
4 Reasons the Great Apostasy is a FALSE Doctrine of Mormonism
Does Mormon theology fall under the definition of Polytheism?
Giovanni Lanfranco painted this assembly of Roman/Greek gods with Jupiter/Zeus at the centre in 1624-25. The central panel is a trompe-l’œil of heaven, where the gods are gathered in council among the clouds.
2. Mormon scripture, prophets, and apostles teach that there is more than one god who created this world, that many gods rule over other worlds, and that worthy Mormons may one day become gods themselves. Even though Mormons claim there is only one God for them, they still believe that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are separate gods who are only one in their purpose rather than in a personal being that they share eternally.
Joseph Smith…
I will preach on the plurality of Gods. I have selected this text for that express purpose. I wish to declare I have always and in all congregations when I have preached on the subject of the Deity, it has been the plurality of Gods. It has been preached by the Elders for fifteen years.
I have always declared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and distinct personage from God the Father, and that the Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitute three distinct personages and three Gods. If this is in accordance with the New Testament, lo and behold! we have three Gods anyhow, and they are plural: and who can contradict it!…
(Joseph Smith, Sermon, as printed in History of the Church, Vol. 6, p. 473-479).
Bruce R. McConkie…
Plurality of Gods: Three separate personages: Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, comprise the Godhead. As each of these persons is a God, it is evident, from this standpoint alone, that a plurality of Gods exists. To us, speaking in the proper finite sense, these three are the only Gods we worship. But in addition there is an infinite number of holy personages, drawn from worlds without number, who have passed on to exaltation and are thus gods.
Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, pp. 576-577
Brigham Young…
How many Gods there are, I do not know. But there never was a time when there were not Gods and worlds, and when men were not passing through the same ordeals that we are now passing through. That course has been from all eternity, and it is and will be to all eternity.
(Journal of Discourses 7:333
Orson Pratt…
In the Heaven where our spirits were born, there are many Gods, each one of whom has his own wife or wives which are given to him previous to his redemption; while yet in his mortal state.
(Orson Pratt, The Seer, 135).
Prophet Joseph Fielding Smith…
To become like him we must have all the powers of godhood;…There is no end to this development; it will go on forever. We will become gods and have jurisdiction over worlds, and these worlds will be peopled by our own offspring.
Doctrines of Salvation 2:48, quoted in Achieving a Celestial Marriage Student Manual, 1976, p.132.
This doctrine, which includes the potential for faithful Latter-day Saints to become gods and create their own worlds, has been taught historically and tacitly confirms an assent to a belief in polytheism. However, official Church websites and public statements may not always explicitly address or emphasize this aspect of their beliefs.
While some might interpret this as denial or downplaying, it’s important to understand that the concept of becoming gods and creating worlds is deeply ingrained in the LDS understanding of the afterlife and remains a core belief for many members.
The doctrinal origin that allowed Joseph Smith to differentiate Mormonism from orthodox Christianity on the concept of God is rooted in the doctrine of exaltation and the concept of a plurality of gods. The doctrine of human potential for godhood, if true, implies a cyclical process extending into the distant past. This suggests our God was once a human, his God was also once human, and so on, creating a potentially infinite chain of gods. The sheer number of deities this would entail, populating the universe or perhaps other dimensions, is staggering to contemplate.
Exaltation: Mormonism teaches that humans have the potential to become like God, a concept known as exaltation or eternal progression. This is based on the belief that God was once a mortal man who progressed to godhood. This doctrine sets Mormonism apart from traditional Christian views of God as an eternally unchanging and singular being.
Plurality of Gods: Mormonism also embraces the idea of a plurality of gods. They believe that there are countless gods who rule over their own universes, and that humans have the potential to become gods themselves through righteous living and obedience to God’s commandments. This polytheistic concept contrasts sharply with the monotheistic view of most Christian denominations, who believe in one God in three persons (the Trinity).
The Godhead: While Mormons acknowledge the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost as divine beings, they view them as separate and distinct individuals, not as three persons in one God. This understanding of the Godhead diverges from the traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity, where the three persons are considered co-equal and co-eternal.
3. Mormon scripture, prophets, and apostles teach that God the Father is an exalted man with flesh and bones.
The doctrinal origin that allowed Joseph Smith to differentiate Mormonism from orthodox Christianity on the nature of God the Father is rooted in the concept of anthropomorphism and the belief in a physical, embodied God.
Joseph Smith…
God himself… is an exalted Man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens. … if you were to see him today, you would see him like a man in form—like yourselves, in all the person, image, and very form as a man.
(Joseph Smith, Journal of Discourses, vol. 6, 3-4.)
D&C…
The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s;
(Doctrines and Covenants 130:22)
Articles of Faith…
We know that both the Father and the Son are in form and stature perfect men; each of them possesses a tangible body … of flesh and bones,
[Articles of Faith (1899), 38.]
Embodied God: Mormonism teaches that God the Father has a tangible body of flesh and bones, just as Jesus Christ does after his resurrection. This belief is based on scriptural interpretations, personal revelations claimed by Joseph Smith, and teachings of subsequent prophets and apostles.
Divine Pattern for Humanity: This concept of an embodied God also connects to the Mormon doctrine of exaltation. By understanding God as an exalted man, it reinforces the idea that humans have the potential to become like God, not just in spirit but also in physical form.
This view of God contrasts with the more abstract and transcendent understanding of God prevalent in many orthodox Christian traditions. These traditions often emphasize God’s spiritual nature and reject the idea of God having a physical body.
By embracing a more literal and anthropomorphic view of God, Joseph Smith established a distinct theological foundation for Mormonism. This doctrine not only differentiated the Latter-day Saints from other Christian denominations but also provided a framework for offering the faithful the potential for an extra-special place in the afterlife.
James White, in his book Letters to a Mormon Elder, addresses the distinct differences between the Mormon and Christian “Doctrine of God.”
4. Mormon prophets and apostles teach that God the Father has at least one wife by whom we were all literally born as spirit children before coming to this earth. Some of these prophets and apostles have even taught that Jesus had wives and children.
The doctrinal origins of the Mormon beliefs regarding Heavenly Mother and the potential for Jesus to have wives stem from a few key sources:
The King Follett Discourse: This sermon, delivered by Joseph Smith in 1844, introduced the concept of a Heavenly Mother, stating that God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood and that humans could follow the same path. This implied a divine feminine counterpart.
Early Mormon Writings: Some early Mormon leaders, such as Orson Pratt and Brigham Young, wrote and preached about the possibility of God the Father having multiple wives and the potential for Jesus to have been married. These ideas were based on interpretations of scripture and revelations they claimed to have received.
The Principle of Eternal Marriage: The Mormon doctrine of eternal marriage, which allows for marriage to continue beyond death, led to speculation about the marital status of divine beings. If marriage was essential for exaltation, it was reasoned that even God and Jesus would have participated in it.
It’s important to note that…
Heavenly Mother: The existence of a Heavenly Mother is generally accepted within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, although little is officially taught about her.
Jesus’ Marital Status: The idea of Jesus being married is not an official doctrine of the Church and is considered speculative by most members.
These beliefs, while not universally accepted or emphasized within Mormonism, demonstrate a departure from traditional Christian views on the nature of God and Jesus, highlighting the unique theological development of the Latter-day Saint movement.
5. The teachings of Joseph Smith…
If Abraham reasoned thus — If Jesus Christ was the Son of God, and John discovered that God the Father of Jesus Christ had a Father, you may suppose that He had a Father also. Where was there ever a son without a father? And where was there ever a father without first being a son? Whenever did a tree or anything spring into existence without a progenitor? And everything comes in this way. Hence if Jesus had a Father, can we not believe that He had a Father also? I despise the idea of being scared to death at such a doctrine, for the Bible is full of it.
I want you to pay particular attention to what I am saying. Jesus said that the Father wrought precisely in the same way as His Father had done before Him. As the Father had done before? He laid down His life, and took it up the same as His Father had done before.
(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 373).
The doctrinal origin described in this paragraph is rooted in Joseph Smith’s teachings on the nature of God and the concept of eternal progression. This concept diverges significantly from traditional Christian theology and is one of the key distinguishing factors of Mormonism.
Key Points:
Eternal Progression: Joseph Smith taught that God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood. This implies a cyclical process where every god was once a man and had a father who was also a god. This doctrine of eternal progression is central to Mormon theology and contrasts with the traditional Christian belief in a single, unchanging God.
The King Follett Discourse: The quote provided is from Joseph Smith’s King Follett Discourse, a pivotal sermon where he elaborated on these ideas. Smith’s reasoning here is that if Jesus had a Father, and John the Baptist recognized that God the Father had a Father, then logically, God the Father must have also had a Father.
Scriptural Interpretation: Smith also cites the Bible to support his argument, interpreting Jesus’ words about His Father doing the same works as Him as evidence of this divine lineage. While this interpretation is unique to Mormonism, it demonstrates Smith’s use of scripture to justify his theological innovations.
Another logical necessity that is explicit in Mormon doctrine is that God is but one of many gods in existence:
“How many Gods there are, I do not know. But there never was a time when there were not Gods and worlds, and when men were not passing through the same ordeals that we are now passing through. That course has been from all eternity, and it is and will be to all eternity.” (Discourses of Brigham Young, pg. 22).
Distinction from Orthodox Christianity:
Nature of God: Mormonism’s concept of a God who was once a man and progressed to godhood is fundamentally different from the traditional Christian understanding of a single, eternal, and unchanging God.
Eternal Progression: The doctrine of eternal progression, with its implication of a cyclical process of gods and fathers, is unique to Mormonism and not found in orthodox Christian theology.
Scriptural Interpretation: While both Mormonism and Christianity use the Bible, their interpretations generally differ significantly, as seen in Smith’s interpretation of Jesus’ words in the King Follett Discourse.
By introducing these concepts, Joseph Smith established a distinct theological framework for Mormonism, one that diverged from traditional Christian beliefs and offered a unique perspective on the nature of God and the potential for human exaltation.
6. Within Mormon theology, Jesus is not considered the creator of all things. Latter-day Saint leaders teach that Jesus did not create human spirits, Lucifer, or even the planet where he was born in spirit form. This belief stems from the Mormon doctrine of a pre-mortal existence, where all individuals, including Jesus and Lucifer, existed as spirit children of heavenly parents. In this framework, Jesus and Lucifer are seen as spiritual brothers, and humans as their younger siblings, all originating from the same divine parents who were responsible for the creation of their specific world, not the entire universe.
The doctrinal origin described in this paragraph stems from Joseph Smith’s teachings on the pre-mortal existence and the nature of God, both of which diverge significantly from traditional Christian theology.
Key Points:
Pre-Mortal Existence: Joseph Smith introduced the concept of a pre-mortal life where all spirits, including those of humans, Jesus, and Lucifer, existed as children of heavenly parents. This pre-mortal existence is a central tenet of Mormon theology and differentiates it from orthodox Christianity, which generally does not teach of a life before birth.
The Nature of God: Mormon theology posits that God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood and that humans can follow the same path. This implies a familial relationship between God, Jesus, humans, and even Lucifer, as all are seen as children of God the Father in a spiritual sense.
Creation: While traditional Christianity attributes the creation of all things to God, Mormonism teaches that God organized the world from pre-existing matter and that the creation of spirits is a separate act performed by heavenly parents. This distinguishes Mormon cosmology from the Christian creation narrative.
Distinction from Orthodox Christianity:
Pre-Mortal Existence: The concept of a pre-mortal life where spirits exist before birth is unique to Mormonism and not found in traditional Christian theology.
The Nature of God: Mormonism’s view of God as an exalted man who progressed to godhood and the familial relationship between God, Jesus, and humans differ significantly from the Christian understanding of a single, eternal, and unchanging God.
Creation: While both religions acknowledge God’s role in creation, Mormonism’s distinction between the creation of the world from pre-existing matter and the creation of spirits by heavenly parents sets it apart from traditional Christian beliefs.
7. Latter-day Saint leaders emphasize the practice of praying directly to God the Father, rather than to Jesus Christ. They teach that prayers should be offered only “in the name of Jesus,” recognizing his role as a mediator and advocate between humanity and God the Father.
Apostle Bruce McConkie said concerning the Father, “He is the one to whom we have direct access by prayer, and if there were some need — which there is not — to single out one member of the Godhead, for a special relationship, the Father, not the Son, would be the one to choose. Our relationship with the Son is one of brother or sister in the pre-mortal life.”
Referring to “others who have an excessive zeal,” McConkie went on to say that “they devote themselves to gaining a special, personal relationship with Christ that is both improper and perilous. …Another peril is that those so involved often begin to pray directly to Christ because of some special friendship they feel has been developed. …This is plain sectarian nonsense. Our prayers are addressed to the Father and to Him only.” (BYU Devotional [March 2, 1982], 17, 19 & 20).
The doctrinal origin described in the paragraph is rooted in Joseph Smith’s teachings on the nature of God and the Godhead, which differ significantly from traditional Christian theology. This distinct understanding led to the development of specific prayer practices within Mormonism.
Key Points:
The Godhead: Mormonism views the Godhead as three separate and distinct beings: God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. While they are united in purpose, they are not considered a single entity, as in the traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity.
God the Father as Supreme: In Mormon theology, God the Father is seen as the supreme being and the ultimate object of worship. He is the one to whom prayers are directed, while Jesus Christ acts as a mediator and advocate.
Scriptural Basis: This practice is supported by a misunderstanding of Jesus’ own prayers in the Bible, where he addresses the Father, and by the Lord’s Prayer, which begins with “Our Father.” Mormon leaders interpret these as evidence that prayers should be directed to the Father.
Unique Relationship with Jesus: Mormons believe in a pre-mortal existence where all spirits, including those of humans and Jesus, were children of God the Father. This fosters a sense of kinship with Jesus, but not one that warrants direct prayer.
Distinction from Orthodox Christianity:
The Godhead: The Mormon concept of the Godhead as three separate beings contrasts with the traditional Christian belief in the Trinity, where God is one being in three persons. In Jesus’ words in John 10.30, “The Father and I are one,” John 8:58, “Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.” Luke 4:8, “And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” John 20:27-28, “Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.”
Is Jesus God? — His followers declared Him to be God … John reiterates the concept of Jesus’ deity: “The Word [Jesus] was God” and “the Word became flesh” (John 1:1, 14). In Revelation, an angel instructed the apostle John to only worship God (Revelation 19:10). Several times in Scripture Jesus receives worship (Matthew 2:11; 14:33; 28:9, 17; Luke 24:52; John 9:38). He never rebukes people for worshiping Him.
The paramount reason why Jesus must be divine is that, without His divinity, His death would not suffice to atone for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2). If Jesus were merely a created being, He would not be capable of paying the infinite price demanded by sin against an infinite God. Only God Himself could bear such an infinite penalty. It is only through His divine nature that Jesus could take on the sins of the world (2 Corinthians 5:21), die, and rise again, thereby demonstrating His triumph over sin and death.
Prayer Focus: While Christians often pray to Jesus directly, Mormonism emphasizes praying to the Father in the name of Jesus. This reflects their distinct understanding of the roles and relationships within the Godhead.
Scriptural Interpretation: Both Mormonism and Christianity use the Bible, but their interpretations differ significantly, as seen in the understanding of prayer practices.
A Christian Response:
Some members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may argue that certain sources cited are not scriptural and therefore lack binding authority. However, biblical teachings caution against following prophets or apostles who present gods different from the one revealed in scripture (Deuteronomy 13:1-51If a prophet or a dreamer of dreams arises among you and gives you a sign or a wonder, 2 and the sign or wonder that he tells you comes to pass, and if he says, ‘Let us go after other gods,’ which you have not known, ‘and let us serve them,’ 3 you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams. For the Lord your God is testing you, to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. 4 You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear him and keep his commandments and obey his voice, and you shall serve him and hold fast to him. 5 But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has taught rebellion against the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you out of the house of slavery, to make you leave the way in which the Lord your God commanded you to walk. So you shall purge the evil[a] from your midst., 2 Corinthians 11:3-42But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough., 13-153For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds., Galatians 1:6-94I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.). Whether the sources in question are considered scriptural within the Mormon faith is secondary. Suppose the teachings they contain contradict the biblical understanding of God. In that case, it raises questions about the alignment of these individuals with the God of the Bible and their adherence to Christian principles.
While members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may raise concerns about potential errors and omissions in the Bible due to translations, they primarily rely on their church’s teachings and personal spiritual confirmation, referred to as a “burning in the bosom,” to guide their faith. In contrast, Christians generally find the consistency among various ancient manuscripts of the Bible to be compelling evidence against the claim that crucial truths have been removed. They trust in the words of Jesus, who affirmed the enduring nature of scripture, and find guidance in the word of God rather than relying solely on personal feelings.
James White, in his book, Letters To a Mormon Elder, addresses the issue of Bible translation through the ages, “But it IS Translated Correctly!”
According to the Christian interpretation of the Bible, the creation of all worlds in the universe is attributed to a single being, not a collective of gods (Isaiah 43:10; 44:6, 8, 24; 45:12; 46:9). While other “gods” are mentioned in scripture, they are consistently portrayed as false idols lacking the true nature of divinity (Ps. 96:5; 1 Cor. 8:1-6; Gal. 4:8).
Some members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may draw parallels between their belief in the potential for humans to become gods (or become “as” gods … take your pick) and the concept of deification found in early Christian writings and some theological traditions. However, these Christian perspectives maintain a belief in a single, unique God and emphasize that humans cannot attain the fundamental attributes of God, such as omnipotence or eternality. Christian deification refers to a spiritual transformation into the likeness of God, not a literal elevation to godhood.
According to biblical teachings, God’s existence is not confined to a physical body; He transcends such limitations (1 Kings 8:27, John 4:21-24). His nature is unchanging and eternal, distinct from humanity (Malachi 3:6, Psalm 90:2). This fundamental difference distinguishes God from humans, even those who might be exalted.
Furthermore, the Bible attributes the creation of all things, including humans and spiritual beings like Lucifer, to Jesus Christ (John 1:1-3, 14, Colossians 1:15-18). This understanding supports the Christian practice of praying to Jesus, as seen in Stephen’s prayer (Acts 7:59).
Jesus himself encouraged prayer to both the Father and himself (John 14:14). His promise to be with his followers always (Matthew 18:20, 28:20) transcends physical presence. While fully human, Jesus is also fully divine and should be recognized as such (John 1:1, 14; 5:18, 23; Romans 9:5; Philippians 2:5-10; Colossians 2:9; Revelation 1:8, 17-18; 22:6-20). As the unique Son of God, he is identified as God the Son (John 1:18).
Orthodox Christian doctrine emphasizes that salvation is dependent on recognizing and believing in the true nature of God, as revealed through Jesus Christ. Jesus himself declared the importance of this belief, stating, “If you do not believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.” (John 8:24).
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints often appears similar to traditional Christian denominations on the surface, using familiar terminology and engaging in practices like baptism and missionary work. However, their underlying beliefs diverge significantly from biblical Christianity, particularly in their understanding of salvation.
The Bible offers a clear and simple answer to the question of salvation— “Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9); “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:16-18); “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” (Titus 3:5); “For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” (Romans 10:10) — Mormonism presents a more complex path. Christian denominations, aligning with the Bible, emphasize salvation as a free gift received through faith in Jesus Christ alone. It is attained through repentance towards God and faith in Jesus, requiring nothing more and nothing less.
This fundamental difference in understanding salvation highlights the divergence between Mormonism and traditional Christian beliefs.
The Bible’s answer to the question of salvation is straightforward: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” (Acts 16:31). The traditional Christian tradition emphasizes salvation as a freely given gift accessible through faith in Jesus Christ alone and it is available to all who embrace Jesus as Lord and Savior. This salvation is achieved through repentance towards God and faith in Jesus, without any additional requirements.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV)Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Galatians 2:16 (KJV)And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.
Romans 11:6 (KJV)Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
2 Timothy 1:9 (KJV)
In contrast, Mormonism presents a more intricate path to salvation, incorporating additional elements far above simple faith in Christ. This fundamental difference in the understanding of salvation underscores the significant divergence between Mormonism and traditional Christian beliefs.
Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Gifts aren’t earned – they are freely given.) John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” 1 John 5:13 “These things are written that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the son of God.”
The Bible says “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation” (Rom. 10:10).
The following resources will help you better understand God’s plan of salvation and the importance of Bible doctrine.
What are good works: Good works from a biblical standpoint are not as a means to earn or learn a higher place in eternal life or God’s favor, but as the natural expression of faith and salvation secured by God’s grace through Jesus Christ. In the Christian life, good works are not burdensome obligations but a joyful expression of the transformative impact of Christ within us.
What is Faith?: Faith is not merely a series of actions or a strong belief but is a transformative gift from God that enables us to grasp and hold onto the gifts of the forgiveness of sins and eternal life offered through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
What is Grace?: The Bible reveals grace’s true breadth and depth, showing it to be more than just a divine aid or a reward for our deeds. Grace, as presented in the Bible, is the foundation of our redemption and the cornerstone of our relationship with God.
What is Sin?: Sin’s true impact goes beyond mere rule-breaking to the core of our hearts and relationships. It begins in the Garden of Eden and continues throughout history, highlighting the pervasive nature of sin and God’s enduring plan for salvation.
What is the Atonement?: The atonement is more than just an abstract theological concept; it is the heartbeat of redemption, the turning point of history, and the cornerstone of our relationship with God. The concept of atonement centers on the profound act of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, eliminating the chasm between man and God created by sin and death.
What is the Gospel?: The biblical narrative is not about what we must do but what God has done through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The Gospel is God’s profound gift of love and redemption, offering forgiveness of sins and the assurance of eternal life independent of our deeds.
What is the Law?: When we turn to the Bible, we find that God’s expectations, as laid out in his law, are vastly different and exceedingly beyond our reach. This difference raises a pivotal question: What is the purpose of God’s law if it presents us with commands that seem impossible to keep? The Law is not a checklist for righteousness but is an indicator of our need for something greater—the grace and redemption found in Jesus Christ.
Who is Jesus?: “Who is Jesus to you?” This question isn’t merely a historical inquiry—it’s a highly personal exploration that touches the core of our existence. The Bible portrays Jesus as God in the flesh, the awaited Messiah, our rescuing Redeemer, and King … a Savior, who calls each of us by name into life-transforming eternal fellowship with him.
Other resources for understanding the history, theology, and doctrines of the LDS Church:
Mapping the Unknown: Exploring the Geographical Enigma of the Book of Mormon: this post examines the accuracy of the Book of Mormon’s historical timeline, geographical studies, and DNA evidence on the origin of Native Americans.
41 Unique Teachings of the LDS Church: by Sandra Tanner
Archaeology and the Book of Mormon: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Bible and Mormon Doctrine: by Sandra Tanner
The Case Against Mormonism, Volume I: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Case Against Mormonism, Volume II: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Case Against Mormonism, Volume III: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Changing World of Mormonism; “A condensation and revision of Mormonism: Shadow or Reality?”: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Mormon Murders, Twenty-Five Years Later: By Sandra Tanner and Rocky Hulse
The Mormon Kingdom, Volume I: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
The Mormon Kingdom, Volume II: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
Mormonism, Magic, and Masonry: by Jerald and Sandra Tanner
People of Paradox, A History of Mormon Culture: by Terry L. Givens
Archaeology, Mormonism, and the Claims of History: by Charles W. Nuckolls
The Truth About Mormonism, What You May Not Have Been Told: by Dennis & Rauni Higley
By His Own Hand Upon Papyrus, A New Look at the Joseph Smith Papyri: By Charles M. Larson
Joseph Smith, The Making of a Prophet: by Dan Vogel
Mormonism and the Question of Truth: by Latayne C. Scott
The entheogenic origins of Mormonism: A working hypothesis
by Robert Beckstead, Bryce Blankenagel, Cody Noconi, & Michael Winkelman
Mormonism Unvailed, 1834: by E.D. Howe
Mormonism and The Mormons, A Historical View of the Rise and Progress of the Sect Self-Styled Latter-day Saints, 1856: by Daniel Parish Kidder
Mormonism Exposed, 1842: by La Roy Sunderland
The Mormon Menace, The Confessions of John Doyle Lee and the Mountain Meadows Massacre
Mormon Beliefs Exposed, LDS Teachings vs The Bible: by Witness For Jesus, Inc.
Should We Trust The Bible? A Christian Response to Mormonism’s Attack Upon the Bible’s Accuracy: by Witness For Jesus, Inc.
This video explores five specific doctrines that were once advocated by Mormon Prophets and Apostles but are no longer part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ teachings.
Reflecting on Jesus’ warnings about false prophets, it’s crucial to recognize that such figures will emerge. The so-called “translation” by Joseph Smith of the Egyptian papyri into what is known as The Book of Abraham serves as concrete evidence questioning the authenticity of Joseph Smith as a prophet in Mormon theology.
According to the giggles and eye-rolls in the comments on this video, the Mormon heaven sounds less like a divine reward and more like a celestial pyramid scheme. The whole “become a god and get your own planet” bit? It’s like the ultimate MLM – but instead of selling Tupperware, you’re peddling planets. Critics are having a field day, mocking this divine real estate scam where you’re promised a universe for living by the rules, making the afterlife seem like a cosmic game show with really bizarre prizes. It’s less “heavenly reward” and more “spiritual capitalism” with a side of space colonization.