Unveiling the Truth: LDS Beliefs on Polygamy, Exaltation, and Jesus Christ Explained

This is a thorough Latter-day Saint apologetic response addressing the post titled "No Mormon Polygamy Means No Salvation" by Michelle Grim of Life After Ministry. The response focuses on clarifying misconceptions about Latter-day Saint (LDS) beliefs, providing scriptural and doctrinal commentary, and identifying logical fallacies present in the critique.

Polygamy in LDS History: Context and Misconceptions

Polygamy, or plural marriage, is often misunderstood and misrepresented in discussions about the LDS faith. Historically, the practice was introduced in the early 19th century as a commandment through the Prophet Joseph Smith. It was a specific practice for a time, rooted in divine instruction and covenant theology. Latter-day Saints believe that polygamy, like other ancient practices (e.g., animal sacrifice or specific dietary laws), was a situational commandment given by God for His purposes and was later discontinued under divine direction in 1890.

Critics like Michelle Grim assert that salvation in Mormonism is dependent on polygamy, which is a false characterization. LDS doctrine emphasizes that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end (see 2 Nephi 31:20). 

At some point the LDS Church will fall to their knees to either worship or acknowledge He’s exalted. For now, ask a Mormon to define exaltation. Also ask why the Mormon Jesus was exalted if He wasn’t practicing polygamy. If they say He was a polygamist ask for verification, i.e. biblical proof.

You’ll notice in their version of exaltation there’s no mention of Jesus at all. Exaltation is synonymous with true salvation in Mormonism and there is no true salvation without polygamy.

While polygamy was practiced by some Latter-day Saints in the past, it is neither required nor practiced in the modern Church. As Bruce R. McConkie stated in Mormon Doctrine, exaltation is synonymous with eternal life and is made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, not through the practice of polygamy.

The claim that Jesus Christ practiced polygamy is also a misconception often attributed to early LDS cultural speculation but is not a doctrinal teaching of the Church. The focus of LDS Christology is on Jesus as the divine Savior who lived a sinless life and provided salvation for all humanity.

On the Term "Mormon Jesus"

The term "Mormon Jesus" is a pejorative phrase coined by counter-cult ministries to mock and deride LDS sacred beliefs about Jesus Christ. Latter-day Saints worship the true Christ as described in the Bible, whom they believe is the Son of God, the Savior, and the Redeemer. The title "Mormon Jesus" creates a false dichotomy and misrepresents Latter-day Saint beliefs.

The difference lies in theological interpretations. Latter-day Saints affirm the biblical teachings of Christ's divine sonship, premortal existence, role as Creator, and exaltation with the Father. However, the LDS understanding of Christ includes additional scripture (e.g., the Book of Mormon) and insights into His mission, but this does not equate to worshiping "another Jesus" (2 Corinthians 11:4).

Exegetical Commentary on Revelation 2–3: Seven Promises and Exaltation

Exaltation is also tied into the idea of eternal progression where we bring glory to God through ongoing sanctification and glorification. It is the highest form of salvation where we are invited to live with our Heavenly Father and partake in his divine nature. What this means is that through the restoration of the sealing power of the keys of the priesthood — families possess the opportunity to be exalted together. It is the aspect of where we understand the nature and meaning of the fulness of the Gospel. 

The Apostle John writes upon the nature of this in Revelation. Given to him by Christ himself: 

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is the new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. he that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit hath saith unto the Churches. (Revelation 3:12–13, KJV).

What is interesting here is that John’s revelation begins as a command to write unto the Seven Churches. Christ, then, addresses each church individually. Within each of these, John records several times where Christ refers to individuals overcoming and receiving Glory. Dressed in garments of white linen, and even purchasing refined gold. 

• Writing to the Church in Ephesus: Christ ends with, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to unto the Churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
• Writing to the Church of Smyrna: Christ ends with, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death
• Writing to the Church in Pergamos: Christ ends with, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth”
• Writing to the Church in Thyatira: Christ says this, “And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches.” 
• Writing to the Church in Sardis: Christ gives John this message, “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches”
• Writing unto the Church in Philadelphia: Christ says this to John the Revelator, “Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” 
• Writing to the Church of the Laodiceans: John records Christ saying, “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyeslave, that thou mayest see. AS many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Seven Churches.”

Elijah’s visitation to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery involved the restoration of priesthood keys. These keys gave Joseph Smith the power and authority to bind heaven and earth through sacred temple ordinances. A fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Along with sacred temple ordinances pertaining to the salvation and exaltation of humanity. Through the restoration of these keys, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints receive:

• A New Name: “I will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.” Echoes the sacred temple ritual where individuals receive a new name. This symbolizes a personal and sacred connection with God, known only to the Individual and God. It is binding covenants and blessings. We see this occur throughout the Old and New Testament. Jacob wrestled with God and when the Lord touched his hip — Jacob requested a blessing. God gave him a new name, Israel, and a blessing. Peter, when giving his confession as a response to the Saviors question, received a new name and a blessing to receive the keys of the kingdom of Heaven. 
• Temple Garments and Clothing: Revelation is rich with symbolism and one of those involves believers being “clothed in white raiment”. This clothing represents purity, holiness, and preparation for divine presence. White raiment also represents the need for spiritual cleanliness and worthiness to stand before God. 
• Exaltation: Partaking from the Tree of Life signifies eternal life and the presence of God. Along with this is the promise of “not being hurt by the second death”. An implication of protection from spiritual death — an idea central to the doctrine of exaltation. Matthew 28:10 is a good reminder where Christ taught that we are not to fear those who have the capability to kill the body. We are to fear God who has the power and authority to destroy both body and soul. 
• Kingship and Divinity: The symbolism of Power over notions and ruling “with a rod of iron” gives insight into divine authority. Kingship parallel’s priesthood power and authority. The blessing and promise here is to become like Christ. To share in his divine nature and authority as we are seated with him on his throne. A promise that the mother of the two sons of Zebedee requested of Christ. To which, Christ says: “…but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.” (Matthew 20:20–23). 
• Power and Authority: Along with Kingship and Divinity, they symbolism of being made as a “pillar in the temple of my God” reflects priesthood authority and the sealing power associated with that. Meaning, individuals are not mere participants, they are integral and permanent aspects of fulfilling God’s will and purpose. It is this priesthood power and authority that further assists God in bringing to past the immortality and eternal life of humanity. In essence, priesthood power and authority are the divine structure of God’s kingdom here on earth. 
• Receiving the Morning Star: For me, this came as a shock as I sat down to study out this week’s come follow me. A significant and profound symbol. Revelation 22:16 identifies Jesus Christ as the Morning Star. Isaiah 14:12 — one reads about how Lucifer is the fallen Morning Star. Contextually, it is referring to a particular king. However, the Hebrew is helel and means “shining one” or “light-bearer”. Both Christ and the Adversary are referred to as “morning stars” and “Light bearers” or “shining ones”. Job gives further evidence that at the dawn of creation, the morning stars sang together with the Sons of God (Job 38:7). Morning Star symbolizes Christ’s preeminence, divinity, and glory. The promise that Christ will give those who overcome the “morning star” is profound in that Christ is saying that we will be rewarded by sharing in his glory. It is the ultimate blessing and gift of God where we receive divine light, guidance, and the promise of becoming like Christ — embodying all his attributes and qualities. 

Here is the clarity of the Morning Star. Since it symbolizes Christ’s divine nature and glory. His role as the light of the world (John 8:12). And his preeminence over all creation (Colossians 1:15-19). The blessing Christ imparts unto all those who overcome, as he overcame, this world refers to promise of sharing in his glory, divinity, and authority. A promise of becoming Christ-like. Because he is the light of the world, and we come to follow him — we partake in this light and participate in the eternal work of bring people unto Christ. It is the core essence of temple ordinances — to bring people into sacred covenantal relationship with God in order to become like Christ. To share in his divine nature and glory. To partake of his eternal life and light. 

• Recognition and Eternal Identity: The seventh blessed promise to those who overcome, as Christ has overcome the world, refers to eternal recognition, hope, and identity. Through the keys of the priesthood restored by Elijah — temple ordinances bind earth and heaven whereby our names are not blotted out. Instead, they are written in the Book of Life. Not only written in the book of life, God’s name and the name of the New Jerusalem is written upon us. This further signifies eternal identity and recognition. Temple ordinances and covenants essentially secure our eternal place in God’s kingdom and presence — only if we are faithful and obedient in maintaining worthiness and honoring our covenants before him. 

For me, these promises written to the seven churches, reflect God’s divine plan through the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Restoration of the keys of the priesthood regarding temple sealings and ordinances by Elijah gives hope and meaning. Helping each of us to realize the sacred significance of what temple rituals symbolize when it comes to our covenants, teachings, and symbolize when it comes to our covenants, teachings, and symbolic worship. All to unite us in sacred bonds for all eternity. 

Acts 7:55–56: Stephen's Theophany

In Acts 7:55–56, Stephen witnesses a profound vision of "the glory of God" and "Jesus standing on the right hand of God." This passage reinforces the LDS understanding of the Godhead as three distinct persons—God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—united in purpose but separate in identity. Stephen’s vision confirms Christ's exalted role and His continuing ministry as our advocate with the Father (1 John 2:1).

Exodus 15:2 and Isaiah 24:23: The Lord as Salvation and Glory

Exodus 15:2 declares, “The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation.” This verse reflects the foundational belief that God is the source of deliverance. Latter-day Saints affirm that salvation comes through Jesus Christ, who enables us to overcome sin and death.

Isaiah 24:23 describes YHWH’s glory in Zion, seated among His elders. This parallels Christ’s prayer in John 17:5, where He asks the Father to restore the glory He had before the world’s foundation. Latter-day Saints interpret this as Christ’s divine premortal status and His exaltation, which believers may also attain through Him.

Exaltation and Becoming New Creations in Christ

Paul teaches in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that those in Christ are new creations. This transformation involves sanctification and becoming like Christ. Latter-day Saints emphasize that exaltation is not self-granted but a gift through the grace of Jesus Christ, requiring faith, repentance, ordinances, and enduring discipleship. Scriptures like Philippians 2:9–11 and Hebrews 1:3 further affirm Christ’s exalted position and His role in bringing the faithful to glory.

Addressing Logical Fallacies in Grim’s Post

1. Strawman Argument: Grim misrepresents LDS beliefs by conflating polygamy with salvation and portraying Latter-day Saints as worshiping a different Jesus. These distortions divert from actual LDS teachings.

2. Ad Hominem Attacks: The term "Mormon Jesus" is a derogatory label intended to undermine LDS beliefs rather than engage with them respectfully.

3. False Equivalence: Equating historical polygamy with eternal salvation ignores the broader context of LDS doctrine, which prioritizes faith in Christ and covenant-keeping.

Conclusion

This response demonstrates that the LDS Church worships Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer of the world, teaches exaltation through Him, and does not require polygamy for salvation. Critics like Grim often rely on distortions and inflammatory rhetoric that fail to represent LDS beliefs accurately. Latter-day Saints invite all to study these teachings in their fullness, through scripture, prayer, and personal revelation.