Mormonism is a topic of contention that has been discussed ever since its establishment in the early 19th century. The debate encompasses many topics and questions, but perhaps the most prominent one concerns whether Mormonism is considered a part of Christianity or a separate religion. To understand the considerations of this issue, it is necessary to first examine the core beliefs of Mormonism.
The central tenets of Mormonism originate in the teachings of Joseph Smith, who was believed to be a true prophet of God in the early 19th century. According to Smith’s teachings, Mormons believe in the following: that there is one God, that Jesus Christ and God have distinct identities, that uniquely Latter-day-Saint scriptures are part of the Bible, and that faith and obedience to divine ordinances can bring salvation. These different teachings identified as forming the foundation of Mormonism have been debated within the realm of Christianity over the years.
Although Mormonism shares beliefs in the same God and Jesus Christ as Christianity, the two religions differ in key aspects that set it apart from other denominations and traditions within Christianity. Latter-day Saint adherents believe in and practice priesthood authority, a belief that the priesthood keys necessary to validly perform religious ordinances have been restored with the latter-day prophets, which is something not found in other Christian traditions. Additionally, some Mormons practice what is known as “temple worship” in which they make sacred commitments regarding their relationship with the divine. Finally, Mormons typically practice polygamy, which is not a tenet of Christian belief.
The argument for Mormonism being part of Christianity is strong and often cited by members of the faith. Mormons believe and teach that the religion was reformed and resurrected by Joseph Smith with additional revelations, which many believe grants it Spirit of truth—the same Spirit that Jesus spoke of in the Bible which is a necessity for any religion to be considered true. Mormons also believe and teach that Jesus is the head of their church, further solidifying the idea that their faith is a part of Christianity. From this perspective, Mormonism is seen as an additional dispensation hidden away until the proper time and given to the church by the Lord.
The argument that Mormonism is not part of Christianity also has many proponents. Skeptics of the faith often point to the differences mentioned previously and doubt that it can truly be considered an authentic continuation of the original Christian tradition. The lack of widespread acceptance within the Christian church further serves to strengthen this view. Those of other Christian denominations often emphasize their belief that Mormonism is a false religion and is not accepted as a valid denomination of Christianity.
To this day, the question of whether or not Mormonism is part of Christianity remains a heated debate. Some view it as an integral part of the religion, while others reject it as a false and dangerous deception. Regardless of whether Mormonism is accepted by the wider Christian church, it will always be a faith deeply rooted in belief in Jesus Christ. To this day, Mormon individuals and families across the globe ardently follow its teachings and strive to bring peace and joy to their fellow man.
Theology of Mormonism
Much of the confusion surrounding Mormonism and Christianity arises from its unique theology. While it shares some fundamental beliefs with those of other denominations, Mormon theology also contains articles of faith that clearly distinguish it from other Christian traditions. Specifically, Latter-day Saint theology places emphasis on modern-day revelation, priesthood keys, temple worship, and the importance of family relationships. These distinct elements of Mormon belief make up the basis of the theology and provide the framework of the faith.
A key aspect of Mormonism is the belief that modern-day prophet Joseph Smith received direct revelation from God, through whom he revealed the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This revelation is based on the Book of Mormon, additional scripture revealed by Smith. The Book of Mormon also declares that priesthood authority has been restored with the latter-day prophets, which is something not found in other Christian traditions. To Mormons, this restoration not only represents a tremendous blessing, but also qualifies them to practice priesthood ordinances, such as baptisms and endowments, which are considered essential for salvation in the afterlife.
The concept of priesthood is vital to Mormon belief, and is taught to be the power of God delegated to man through certified and worthy members of the faith. This idea is further emphasizes with the concept of temple ordinances, which include baptism, sealing, and the like. These ordinances, specifically, are considered sacred and to be personally conducted only in holistically consecrated temple buildings, in order for the individuals to receive their saving ordinances. These acts are often not understood by non-Mormons, and are a source of certain confusion and false perception from the outside.
Mormon Practices
Mormon’s practices are just as important to understanding this religion as its theology. In addition to regular prayer and scripture study, Mormons observe certain ordinances which are only conducted in holy temples. For followers of the Latter-day Saint faith, these ordinances are considered highly sacred and crucial to achieving eternal salvation. Some of the most important ordinances are endowments, which are similar to Christian sacraments of baptism.
Mormons also maintain an active social life, and partake in recreational activities and service. Through interaction with their fellow members and service to those in need, they seek to maintain the spirit necessary to experience God and form lasting friendships. Additionally, Mormons strive to maintain moral cleanliness through the avoidance of substances that can be problematic, such as tobacco and alcohol.
Mormon congregations are, by and large, led by women who are assigned specific roles within the congregation. The church’s leadership is also composed of men and sometimes even priests. As members go through life, they are also expected to become active within the institutional and social affairs of their local congregations, such as participating in Sunday school or signing up for specific committees.
Finally, within the Latter-day Saint tradition, marriage is considered highly important and should eventually lead to a family. As such, members of the faith often strive to maintain a close, traditional nuclear family within which they are all devoted to one another. Within this family unit, Mormons are actively encouraged to practice faith and repentance, nourish their spirits with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and obey the laws of the Lord.
Moral Teachings
Mormonism is often defined by its moral teachings and way of life, and this faith emphasizes a set of values which most believers strive to uphold. These values stem from a combination of religious teachings and updated guidance from alternating Church leaders. Much like other Christians, Mormons are urged to value honesty, hard work, and integrity, and also share their beliefs with others. Additionally, individuals of the Latter-day faith are taught to respect their neighbor and uphold Christ-like love in all aspects of their lives.
The strong emphasis on following the moral teachings comes with the requirement of chastity before marriage and fidelity in marriage. This aspect of the faith is highly enforced, and Mormons believe that the traditional family unit is essential in order to ensure the perpetuation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are various rules and guidelines that members of the Church of Jesus Christ have to abide by in order to maintain the true nature of Christianity and the practice of chastity.
In addition to chastity and fidelity, Latter-day Saints are expected to help those of the faith in need, and to serve their communities in ways which reflect positively on their religion. This service can range from disaster relief to church building projects, and ultimately gives Latter-day Saints an avenue of spreading their moral teachings to the world.
Rejection from Within Christianity
Despite its teachings rooted in Christianity and Jesus Christ as the head of the faith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has experienced significant pushback from within the larger Christian sphere. It is for this reason that the faith has been commonly viewed as a separate religion with no ties to the traditional Christian tradition.
In the past, this disagreement originated primarily from the Roman Catholic Church, though nowadays wider portions of the Protestant churches are developing similar doubts due to the various differences in their beliefs. In addition to this, many Church members’ practices, such as polygamy and temple ordinances, have provoked opposition from other Christians as well.
These accusations have created a divide between Mormonism and other Christian faiths, even resulting in some Mormons feeling that they aren’t accepted within the realm of Christianity. This divide has created a substantial amount of mistrust on both sides, making it difficult for Latter-day Saints to find acceptance in the larger Christian community.
Mormonism and Christianity: A Continuation or a Defiance?
The debate surrounding the status of Mormonism within Christianity is a longstanding one, and takes many different forms. Many members of the Latter-day Saint faith maintain that Mormonism is a continuing revelation of the original Christian traditions, though not all Christians agree. Ultimately, whether or not Mormonism is accepted within the greater Christian community may never be fully resolved, although the faith will always stand as an important part of its history.
When examining the evidence objectively, Joseph Smith’s story of the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints appears to have strong spiritual credibility. He then revealed various scriptures including the Book of Mormon, and the Church stands upon a foundation of faith, proclaiming that Jesus died and was resurrected and that individuals can be saved through grace and repentance. These same ideals and beliefs are echoed throughout Christianity, and while there may be many who reject the Church, true Christians can’t deny the teachings of Joseph Smith are deeply embedded in the Christian faith.
Regardless of opinion, it is undeniable that some Christians hold the doctrine of Mormonism in their hearts and minds—and that’s what truly matters. Mormonism can be a part of Christianity for those who, with an earnest heart and seeking soul, choose to make it so, and no degree of rejection from other denominations can take away from that certainty.
