The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as Mormonism, claims to be a restoration of true Christianity. However, its teachings diverge significantly from the core doctrines of biblical Christianity. This essay explores the origins and growth of Mormonism, key doctrinal differences, its appeal, and the methods it uses to retain members. Finally, it contrasts the restrictive practices of Mormonism with the freedom believers have in Christ.
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The Origins of Mormonism
The LDS Church was founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith in upstate New York. Smith claimed to have received visions from God and an angel named Moroni, who directed him to golden plates inscribed with a new revelation. These plates were supposedly translated into the Book of Mormon, which Mormons regard as Scripture alongside the Bible. Over time, Smith introduced additional teachings, including doctrines found in the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price.
Today, the LDS Church boasts over 17 million members worldwide, with its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is particularly influential in the United States, where its well-organized missionary efforts and community-based practices have contributed to its growth. While Mormonism appeals to many because of its emphasis on family values, morality, and community, its doctrines and practices often diverge sharply from biblical Christianity.
Key Doctrinal Differences Between Mormonism and Christianity
- God’s Nature
- Mormon Doctrine: God was once a man and progressed to become a god. He has a physical body and resides on a planet near a star called Kolob. Mormons believe humans can also become gods through obedience.
- Christianity: The Bible teaches that God is eternal, unchanging, and spirit. He is the Creator, not a created being. “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:2) “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)
- The Trinity
- Mormon Doctrine: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are three separate beings. They reject the orthodox Christian teaching of the Trinity.
- Christianity: The Bible teaches that God is one in essence and three in persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deuteronomy 6:4) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
- Jesus Christ
- Mormon Doctrine: Jesus is the firstborn spirit child of God and a created being. He is the spirit brother of Lucifer.
- Christianity: Jesus is eternally God, the second person of the Trinity, who took on human flesh to redeem humanity. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (John 1:14)
- Salvation
- Mormon Doctrine: Salvation involves faith, good works, baptism into the LDS Church, and adherence to its teachings. Full exaltation (entry into the highest heaven) requires obedience to temple ordinances and other works.
- Christianity: Salvation is by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works. “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.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- Scripture
- Mormon Doctrine: The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price are considered Scripture, alongside the Bible. Mormons believe the Bible is reliable only “as far as it is translated correctly.”
- Christianity: The Bible alone is God’s inspired and authoritative Word. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)
- Heaven
- Mormon Doctrine: There are three levels of heaven—Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial. Only those who achieve the highest level, through strict obedience, can become gods and rule their own planets.
- Christianity: The Bible describes heaven as the eternal dwelling place of all who trust in Christ. “And so we will be with the Lord forever.” (1 Thessalonians 4:17) There is no hierarchy in eternal life based on works.
- Baptism for the Dead
- Mormon Doctrine: Mormons practice proxy baptism for deceased relatives to offer them the opportunity to accept Mormonism in the afterlife.
- Christianity: The Bible teaches that salvation is determined in this life. “People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27)
- The Role of Prophets
- Mormon Doctrine: Joseph Smith is considered the first modern prophet, and the LDS Church continues to be led by prophets who receive direct revelation from God.
- Christianity: Jesus is the final and ultimate revelation of God. “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.” (Hebrews 1:1-2)
- Temple Worship
- Mormon Doctrine: Temples are central to Mormon worship, where members perform secret ceremonies and receive temple endowments, including sacred undergarments and handshakes.
- Christianity: The Bible teaches that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you?” (1 Corinthians 6:19)
- Tithing
- Mormon Doctrine: Members are required to tithe 10% of their income to remain in good standing and gain access to the temple.
- Christianity: Giving is voluntary and motivated by gratitude, not obligation. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
- Restrictions
- Mormon Doctrine: The LDS Church imposes strict rules on diet (e.g., no coffee, tea, or alcohol) and behavior.
- Christianity: While Scripture teaches self-control, believers are not bound by man-made restrictions. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” (Galatians 5:1)
- Missionary Work
- Mormon Doctrine: Young members are required to serve as full-time missionaries, often at their own expense.
- Christianity: Evangelism is encouraged, but it is Spirit-led and not a mandatory requirement. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses.” (Acts 1:8)
Mormon Practices and Cult Tactics
The LDS Church employs several tactics to attract and retain members, including:
- Strong Community Appeal: Mormonism emphasizes family values, morality, and mutual support, creating a sense of belonging.
- Control Through Rules: Strict rules regarding tithing, diet, clothing, and behavior foster dependence on the church for spiritual guidance.
- Sacred Undergarments: Temple endowments include wearing specific garments, which are said to offer spiritual protection, creating a tangible symbol of allegiance.
- Secrecy: Temple ceremonies involve secret handshakes and rituals, fostering an “insider” mentality that deepens commitment.
- High Demands: Missionary work and temple participation require significant time and financial investments, making it harder for members to leave.
Freedom in Christ
In contrast to the legalism and burdens of Mormonism, biblical Christianity offers freedom in Christ. Salvation is a gift of grace, not a reward for obedience. Believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live in liberty and joy, free from man-made rules. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)
Christians serve God not out of compulsion but from love and gratitude. The gospel does not impose burdens but lifts them: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) This rest is found in the finished work of Christ, who offers true peace and assurance.
Conclusion
Mormonism and biblical Christianity differ fundamentally in their understanding of God, salvation, and the gospel. While Mormonism imposes burdens and relies on extra-biblical revelations, Christianity proclaims the sufficiency of Christ’s work and the freedom of the believer. By holding fast to the truth of Scripture, Christians can discern false teachings and rest in the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. As Paul wrote, “Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
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.
