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Are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Christians? Let’s clear this up right away – yes, they are. It’s a common misconception that Latter-day Saints (or Mormons) don't fit under the Christian umbrella, mainly because their beliefs and practices differ from those of traditional Christian denominations.
Understanding the core beliefs of the LDS Church is crucial. Members believe in Jesus Christ as the Savior, the Son of God, and the Redeemer of the world. They follow His teachings and strive to live by His example. Despite doctrinal differences, such as additional scriptures and unique views on the Godhead, the center of their faith remains firmly rooted in Christ.
One key point of contention is the claim by some evangelical Christians that Mormons don’t adhere to "central core doctrines of historical Christianity." This debate often ignores the early variations in Christian beliefs and the impact of historical events, such as the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent scattering of Christians. Without central apostolic authority, differing interpretations emerged, some aligning closely with what Mormons believe today.
Eric Johnson of the Mormonism Research Ministry penned an essay titled "Gospel Topics Essay: Are Mormons Christian?" which was recently referenced by Glenn E. Chatfield, a pedestrian Anti-Mormon critic. In his essay, Johnson tries to argue that Mormons aren't Christians. He attempts to present statements from the Church's website and them by sprinkling sporadic statements where he asserts cherry-picked statements as "utter nonsense" or claims they have "no support." However, what stands out is neither Johnson nor Chatfield provide any meaningful counterevidence or support for their assertions. They appear to be recycling typical Evangelical talking points to insist their perspective is the only correct one.
This approach is intellectually dishonest, as it doesn't engage with the beliefs and doctrines of Latter-day Saints in a substantive way. Instead of fostering an informed discussion, Johnson and Chatfield rely on dismissive language and unsupported claims, which undermines the credibility of their arguments. By failing to offer solid evidence or reasoned counterpoints, they're not encouraging genuine understanding but rather promoting a one-sided narrative that lacks depth and fairness.
Johnson's essay examines the question of whether Mormons are considered Christians. It begins by acknowledging that many Latter-day Saints are offended when their Christian status is challenged, but the author argues that more than just semantics or minor disagreements exist between Mormonism and Christianity.
The essay then outlines several reasons why some have claimed the LDS Church is not a Christian church. First, Latter-day Saints do not accept the creeds, confessions, and formulations of post-New Testament Christianity. The author contends that the LDS belief in an embodied God the Father differs from the post-New Testament creeds. However, the essay states that whatever doctrinal differences exist, the roles Latter-day Saints ascribe to members of the Godhead largely correspond with the views of others in the Christian world.
Secondly, the essay addresses the argument that the LDS Church does not descend through the historical line of traditional Christianity. The author acknowledges this is true, as the LDS Church believes priesthood authority was restored through Joseph Smith, making it a "restored" rather than a "reformed" church.
Thirdly, the essay discusses the LDS belief in an open scriptural canon, including the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, in addition to the Bible. The author argues that while some Christians believe the Bible is the sole and final word of God, this is not a universal Christian belief, as other Christian traditions also rely on sources beyond the Bible.
The essay then provides examples of LDS leaders asserting the uniqueness and superiority of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints compared to other Christian denominations. It also acknowledges that while there are differences, Latter-day Saints wish to work together with other Christians on moral and family issues.
In conclusion, the essay states that the better question is not whether Mormons are Christian, but whether Mormonism is Christian. The author argues that based on the evidence presented, the answer is definitively no.
So, while labels and definitions may vary, the devotion of Latter-day Saints to Jesus Christ and His teachings clearly place them within the broad and diverse family of Christianity.
Your problem is that you have been indoctrinated into the LDS cult. I'm an ex-Mormon and have studied the BOM, PoGP, D&C, and lots of stuff from the Journal of Discourses. Yes, I do indeed know what I'm talking about; I have studied the LDS cult for over 50 years, probably since before you were born.
ReplyDeleteAll you have are ad hominem attacks, proving what a fool, you are.
You claimed that I have been indoctrinated into the LDS cult. To make such a claim, you must provide solid and reasonable evidence. Without that, your statement is just an opinion and not a fact.
DeleteYou mentioned that you are an ex-Mormon and have studied the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, Doctrine and Covenants, and other LDS materials for over 50 years. You claimed to have superior knowledge on the subject.
This reminds me of the time Christ was confronted by the Sadducees. They didn't believe in the resurrection and tried to discredit Him by asking a tricky question about a woman who married seven brothers, all of whom died without having children. Despite their extensive study, Christ pointed out that they misunderstood the scriptures.
Matthew 22:29 says, "But Jesus answered and said to them, 'You are mistaken, because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God!'"
I have met many apostates and evangelical Christians who claim to understand the LDS faith deeply. However, like the Pharisees and Sadducees, they may have studied the texts but lack genuine understanding and the power of God. Your claim to expertise is just intellectual posturing driven by ego. The number of years you have studied doesn't matter if you are proven wrong. It's essential to be humble enough to accept correction, something you seem unwilling to do, which is hypocritical.
You accused me of making personal attacks, calling me a fool. However, the burden of proof lies with you. Where have I insulted anyone? Have you taken the time to read my full post on my main website? Are you open to having a rational and healthy discussion? Can you entertain the possibility that you might be wrong? Maybe I'm not the one struggling with indoctrination or confirmation bias.
Before making such assumptions and insults, consider what I have to offer. If I'm shown to be wrong in a respectful manner, I will investigate and potentially shift my perspective. If my research supports my beliefs, I will present that evidence and challenge you to correct your perspective.
From my experience, Evangelical Christians like yourself are often resistant to correction. Here’s why:
1. Admitting error challenges your entire worldview and the validity of your beliefs.
2. It forces you to acknowledge that you’ve embraced and spread falsehoods.
3. You’d have to deconstruct and reshape your understanding of scripture, which is a daunting task.
People prefer to maintain their cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias rather than admit vulnerability and serious errors. This is why the Pharisees and Sadducees struggled with Christ’s teachings. It challenged their worldview, and they clung to their false piety.
So, before accusing someone of being indoctrinated or brainwashed, take a hard look at whether you are the one holding onto lies and deceptions.