The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as Mormonism, is one of the largest and most popular branches of Christianity in the world today. Founded in the early 1800s in the United States, Mormonism has continued to grow and now has millions of followers across the globe.
Though it shares some similarities to traditional Christianity, Mormonism’s beliefs and practices differ significantly from the mainstream Christian denominations. In particular, Mormonism’s theological framework is unique in its focus on modern revelation and the ongoing authority of prophets.
Mormonism teaches that God is sovereign, omnipotent, and omniscient. He is separate from humans but deeply involved in their affairs. Unlike traditional Christianity, Mormonism asserts that God regularly communicates with humankind and that He has a special relationship with the prophet Joseph Smith. This belief has led Mormonism to assert that Joseph Smith was divinely inspired to author key Mormon scriptures, such as the Book of Mormon.
Mormonism also differs from traditional Christianity in its view of the nature of heaven. Mormons believe that heaven consists of three distinct kingdoms determined by one’s faith and works. The highest kingdom, the Celestial Kingdom, is reserved for those who have made and kept the highest degree of temple covenants. The degree of glory one receives in the Celestial Kingdom is not necessarily static for eternity – instead, it is possible to progress further in one’s heavenly glory.
Mormonism’s views on the afterlife also differ from those of traditional Christian beliefs. Mormons accept the concept of an afterlife, but view it differently from other Christian denominations. In particular, Mormons believe that family relationships can continue beyond death and be sealed together in the afterlife. Mormons also teach that souls awaiting the resurrection can choose to remain in the spirit world, or even to live on in spirit form on earth.
On the doctrine of salvation, Mormons teach that humans can be saved through Jesus’ atoning sacrifice but that faith must be accompanied by action – such as a commitment to follow the gospel and its teachings. This stands in contrast to most other Christian denominations, which place greater emphasis on faith alone.
Though there are significant differences between Christians and Mormons, both groups affirm the importance of Jesus Christ as a central figure in their respective belief systems. The two groups can still find common ground in their shared love of the Savior, even while they disagree on specific doctrines and interpretations of scripture.
Mormonism and the Plan of Salvation
Mormonism is unique among Christian denominations in its teaching on the Plan of Salvation. Many Christians believe that salvation is achieved solely through faith in Jesus Christ, while Mormons add additional elements to the plan such as obedience, repentance, and baptism.
Mormonism teaches that individuals must follow the example of the Savior and strive to live a life of righteousness. This includes keeping the commandments and ordinances that were given through modern-day revelation and submitted to the Church, such as baptism and the sacrament. In this way, adherence to the teachings of the Church are a great part of salvation, not just faith in Christ.
Mormons also teach that salvation is a free gift bestowed upon us through Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice, and that it is not a result of one’s works. Instead, works are seen as evidence of one’s faith, and they help to qualify the individual for eternal life. In this sense, works and faith go hand in hand in the Mormon faith.
The doctrine of salvation in Mormonism is thus more intricate than the version presented in traditional Christian denominations. That being said, its main message is the same – salvation is a free gift from God through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Mormonism and Modern Revealtion
Mormonism also stands apart from other Christian denominations due to its emphasis on modern-day revelation. While many denominations accept the concept of modern-day prophets, Mormon scripture and teachings place a much heavier emphasis on the prophetic calling. In particular, the LDS church claims that Joseph Smith was the prophet through whom heaven revealed itself to mankind for the last time, and that his writings constitute scripture.
Because of this reliance on modern revelation, Mormons claim that their beliefs are constantly evolving and maturing. This allows Mormons to be more open to new spiritual experiences and revelations, while traditional Christianity tends to place more emphasis on unchanging beliefs. The LDS Church also claims that it is the only true church, and that all other Christian denominations have broken away from an original understanding of Christ’s teachings.
While this concept of modern revelation does set Mormonism apart from mainstream Christianity, it does not necessarily mean that Mormons reject traditional Christian beliefs. Instead, Mormons simply view these beliefs through a different lens, which is determined by modern revelations and their interpretation.
The reliance on modern revelations has enabled the LDS church to keep up with the changing times. It has allowed the church to go beyond traditional views on sin and salvation and develop a more nuanced understanding of these concepts. This has in turn enabled the LDS church to become more responsive to the needs of its members, as well as cultivate a more meaningful relationship between its believers and its prophets.
Mormonism and Polygamy
Although polygamy has been a controversial topic within Mormonism, the LDS Church officially banned the practice in 1890. The church has since disavowed polygamy and strictly prohibits members from engaging in it. However, the belief within Mormonism that God revealed the practice to Joseph Smith continues to exist among certain members.
Mormons who do practice polygamy do not necessarily believe that it is required for salvation. Rather, they believe that polygamy is authorized by God as a way for devout individuals to live a more righteous lifestyle. These polygamous marriages are sanctioned by their own private organizations, not by the LDS Church, and most are located in the western United States.
Though some might claim that polygamy is an essential part of the Mormon religion, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has never taught it as such and today strictly prohibits it. Thus, the practice of polygamy should not be seen as a distinctively Mormon belief.
Mormonism and Dietary Guidelines
Another point of difference between Mormonism and other Christian denominations lies in its dietary guidelines. The LDS Church encourages its members to abstain from alcoholic beverages, tobacco, coffee, and tea. This commandment is known as the “Word of Wisdom” and is found in the Doctrine and Covenants, one of the four major books of LDS scripture.
Mormons also believe that dietary purity is linked to spiritual purity and that consuming certain substances is “unwise and not for the long-term health of the soul”. This means that consuming food or drink that does not conform to the Word of Wisdom, such as coffee and tea, will prevent one from achieving the spiritual closeness with God that these dietary guidelines are intended to provide.
Tending to one’s dietary and health concerns is therefore seen as an important aspect of the Mormon faith, and abstaining from certain substances is presented as the best way to keep a clean body and spirit. For this reason, the Word of Wisdom has come to be seen as an essential part of the Mormon way of life.
Mormonism and Controversial Issues
Mormonism can sometimes find itself in the middle of a theological controversy, particularly in regards to its views on certain modern issues. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sometimes takes stances on salient social issues that can differ from other Christian denominations. For example, the LDS Church has historically opposed same-sex marriage and actively lobbied against it in Utah, although it has softened its position on the issue in recent years.
When it comes to abortion, the LDS Church’s stance is slightly different. It advocates for the rights of unborn children and has spoken out against abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or if the mother’s life is in danger. Despite this, the church does not take a hard line on the issue and does not support any particular political parties or candidates.
In general, the LDS Church tries to avoid political entanglement and instead works to bring people together on issues of moral and religious importance. Though there are some controversial issues on which the LDS Church has taken a stance, its overall mission is to promote unity across religious lines and ensure a civil dialogue on matters of social importance.
Mormonism and Service
One area in which Mormons and traditional Christians share common ground is in the practice of service. The LDS Church encourages its members to participate in service opportunities in their communities and abroad, stressing that service is a cornerstone of Christianity. Mormons are encouraged to serve those in need, offer assistance to those in need, and share their gifts to benefit others.
The LDS Church has a long history of service, from providing supplies to earthquake victims to assisting with the European refugee crisis. Its members are encouraged to serve one another in their daily lives and follow the example of Jesus Christ by loving and serving their fellow man.
The LDS Church also has an extensive system of organized service opportunities and aid programs. For example, the Church operates a worldwide system of welfare assistance, which allows church members to volunteer their time and donate resources to those in need. These programs are intended to combat poverty, promote health, and improve education in countries around the world.
Mormonism’s emphasis on service is closely linked to its beliefs on the importance of loving one’s neighbor. The LDS Church teaches that service should be unconditional and selfless, with no expectation of receiving something in return. This view is closely aligned with the teachings of Jesus, who commanded his followers to “love their neighbor as themselves.”
