Utah, with its breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring natural formations, is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. Among these, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park stand as jewels, drawing millions of visitors annually to admire the stunning red rock cliffs, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. While the beauty of God’s creation in these parks is undeniable, the region’s spiritual landscape is more complex. Utah is widely known for its significant Mormon population, which makes up the majority of its residents. However, Utah’s history is deeply tied to early Christian pioneers who explored and named much of the region before Mormon settlers established dominance.
In this essay, we will explore the history of Zion and Bryce, the region’s early Christian pioneers, the rise of Mormonism and its present dominance in Utah, and how Christians today can visit and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation while being mindful of the stark theological differences between biblical Christianity and Mormonism.
Words: 1718 / Time to read: 9 minutes
Utah’s Christian Pioneer Heritage
Before delving into the natural wonders of Zion and Bryce, it is important to recognize the early Christian roots that influenced the exploration and development of this region. The American West in the mid-19th century was largely uncharted, and Christian explorers and pioneers played an essential role in settling the area. Many of these early settlers were devout Christians who traveled westward seeking new opportunities and the freedom to practice their faith.
One of the most notable early pioneers was Frederick Vining Fisher, a Methodist minister, who traveled through southern Utah in the early 1900s. As he gazed upon the towering mountains that bordered what would become Zion National Park, Fisher was inspired by the biblical patriarchs and named the three majestic peaks Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His decision to name these mountain ranges after significant biblical figures reflected his deep Christian faith and desire to honor the legacy of these patriarchs. Fisher, like many other Christian pioneers of his time, saw the natural beauty of the land as a reflection of God’s creative power.
Zion, in particular, was named by Christian settlers in the late 1800s, drawing on the biblical term “Zion,” which is often used in the Bible to refer to Jerusalem or the heavenly city of God. To these early Christians, the towering rock formations and peaceful canyons of the region seemed to reflect the grandeur and majesty of God’s creation. They believed that this land could be a refuge, a place of spiritual renewal and divine connection, much like the concept of Zion in the Bible. Psalm 48:1-2 says, “Great is the Lord, and most worthy of praise, in the city of our God, his holy mountain. Beautiful in its loftiness, the joy of the whole earth, like the heights of Zaphon is Mount Zion, the city of the Great King.”
As more settlers arrived, they began to establish communities, build churches, and cultivate the land. It was a time of Christian missionary expansion, with settlers viewing the region as an untamed wilderness where they could bring the light of the gospel. The naming of places like Zion reflects not only their love of Scripture but also their desire to see God’s hand in the beauty around them.
The idea that God is intimately involved in creation and that the natural world is a testimony of His glory is woven throughout the Bible. Psalm 19:1 states, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Christians have long believed that God reveals Himself through His creation, inviting all people to worship Him as the Creator.
The Beauty of Zion and Bryce National Parks
Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, and breathtaking vistas, is a place that inspires awe and wonder. The park is characterized by its massive canyon walls, red rock formations, and the Virgin River, which runs through its heart. The name “Zion” itself evokes images of God’s holy mountain, a place where people seek to draw closer to their Creator. As Christians, visiting Zion provides a unique opportunity to marvel at the creativity and power of God, who made the heavens and the earth.
Bryce Canyon National Park is equally stunning, though vastly different in its geological makeup. Known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon offers a surreal landscape, with towering spires of rock that glow in shades of red, orange, and pink. The beauty and complexity of Bryce Canyon serve as a reminder of the intricacy of God’s design. Romans 1:20 reminds us, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
Both Zion and Bryce offer moments of reflection where Christians can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation and worship Him for His majesty. Whether hiking the trails, watching the sunset over the cliffs, or simply marveling at the panoramic views, believers are reminded of God’s power and artistry in creating such diverse and magnificent landscapes.
In addition to these reflections, Christians can draw inspiration from the truth that God has not only created the natural world for our enjoyment but also to serve as a testament to His goodness and providence. Colossians 1:16 reminds us, “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.” This acknowledgment encourages believers to use their experiences in nature as a way to deepen their relationship with God.
The Rise of Mormonism in Utah
While Utah’s early Christian pioneers left a mark on the land, it is impossible to ignore the significant role Mormonism has played in shaping the state’s culture and demographics. Mormonism, officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. After experiencing persecution in the Midwest, the Mormons, under the leadership of Brigham Young, began their westward journey in 1847, eventually settling in the Salt Lake Valley. Utah quickly became the center of Mormonism, and the region remains overwhelmingly influenced by the LDS Church.
Mormonism differs significantly from biblical Christianity in several key theological areas. While Mormons claim to follow Jesus Christ, their understanding of His nature, the authority of the Bible, and the means of salvation diverge from historic Christian teachings. For instance, Mormon doctrine teaches that God the Father was once a man who achieved godhood, and that faithful Mormons can also become gods in the afterlife, a belief that stands in stark contrast to the Christian understanding of the one eternal God. Isaiah 43:10 clearly declares, “Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.”
Furthermore, Mormons hold to additional scriptures, such as the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, which they believe to be divinely inspired. Christians, however, hold the Bible as the final and sufficient authority for faith and practice. 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” The inclusion of extra-biblical revelations is a key point of division between Christians and Mormons.
As the LDS Church grew in Utah, it became a dominant force in both the cultural and economic life of the state. Today, Utah is known for its large Mormon population, with over 60% of the state identifying as members of the LDS Church. This dominance is reflected in every facet of life in Utah, from government and business to education and community values.
Contrasting Christianity and Mormonism
The differences between Christianity and Mormonism are profound and should not be underestimated. While both groups may use similar terminology and even claim to worship Jesus Christ, the Jesus of Mormonism is not the same as the Jesus of the Bible. Mormons believe that Jesus is a created being, the spirit brother of Lucifer, and that He attained godhood through obedience to God the Father. In contrast, Christianity teaches that Jesus is the eternal Son of God, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father. John 1:1-3 states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.”
Additionally, Mormonism teaches a works-based salvation, where individuals must adhere to the teachings of the LDS Church, perform temple rituals, and live according to certain standards in order to reach the highest level of heaven. Biblical Christianity, on the other hand, teaches that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 proclaims, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
As the well-known theologian R.C. Sproul once said, “Justification by faith alone is the hinge upon which the whole of Christianity turns.” This quote underscores the vast difference between biblical Christianity and Mormonism, particularly in their views on how a person is made right with God.
How Christians Can Visit and Enjoy Utah’s Parks
For Christians visiting Zion and Bryce, the challenge lies in enjoying the beauty of God’s creation while being mindful of the spiritual climate of the region. Most of the service providers, business owners, and guides in the area are likely to be members of the LDS Church. While this does not mean Christians cannot engage with these individuals, it does require discernment in conversations, particularly when discussions about faith arise.
When visiting these parks, Christians should approach the trip as an opportunity to reflect on God’s majesty in creation, much like the psalmist does in Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Being immersed in the natural beauty of Zion and Bryce allows believers to draw near to God, offering praise for the wonders He has made. At the same time, it’s important to remember that the gospel message Christians hold dear is vastly different from the message promoted by the LDS Church.
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
