Andrew Soncrants recently offered a critique of the LDS First Article of Faith, focusing on his interpretation of the Godhead and its supposed contradictions with biblical teachings. His argument suggests that Joseph Smith's revelations in the Book of Mormon conflict with traditional Christian views of God's eternal nature. This raises critical questions about LDS theology and how it compares to mainstream Christian doctrines, such as the Trinity. Addressing these misunderstandings is essential—not just to clarify LDS beliefs, but to ensure that God's character, as understood in the Restored Gospel, is properly represented. This discussion will unpack the errors in Soncrants' claims, relying on scripture and sound reasoning to set the record straight.
Understanding the LDS First Article of Faith
The First Article of Faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints makes a bold and clear declaration: “We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.” This foundational statement sets the tone for understanding who God is in LDS theology. It also offers a distinctive contrast to traditional Christian beliefs about the nature of God, particularly as seen in concepts like the Trinity.
A Declaration of Belief in the Godhead
In LDS theology, the Godhead consists of three distinct beings: God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Unlike the concept of the Trinity in traditional Christianity, where God is regarded as one essence in three persons, the LDS understanding emphasizes their individuality and separate natures, while maintaining their unity in purpose.
- God, the Eternal Father: He is the literal Heavenly Father, a glorified and perfected being with a tangible body of flesh and bone. As the Creator of humanity, He is the central being of worship.
- Jesus Christ: He is God's Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Savior and Redeemer of the world. He shares the Father's divine mission and acts as an intercessor for humanity.
- The Holy Ghost: A personage of spirit with no physical body, the Holy Ghost’s role is to testify of truth, guide individuals to Christ, and provide comfort and inspiration.
What unites these distinct beings? Their oneness in purpose, not substance. Their mission is singular: to bring about the immortality and eternal life of God’s children. Each contributes uniquely but harmoniously to the eternal plan of salvation, offering a cooperative model of divinity that is relational, accessible, and deeply personal to believers.
The LDS perspective on the Godhead is grounded in scriptural accounts like the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:16-17), where the Father speaks from heaven, the Son is baptized, and the Holy Ghost descends like a dove. These scriptures highlight the distinct roles of each member of the Godhead.
Comparison with Traditional Trinity Doctrine
A major point of critique from people like Andrew Soncrants lies in the difference between the LDS Godhead and the traditional Christian Trinity. While the Trinity teaches that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal and co-eternal persons of one indivisible substance, the LDS doctrine maintains a clear distinction between these beings. Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences:
- Nature of God: LDS theology teaches that the Father and the Son have physical bodies (see Doctrine and Covenants 130:22), while the Holy Ghost is a spirit. Traditional Christianity asserts that God exists as a single, immaterial essence.
- Oneness: For Latter-day Saints, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are "one" in purpose. Traditional Trinity doctrine teaches that they are one in being, often described as a mystery beyond human comprehension.
- Human connection: The LDS belief holds that men and women are literal spirit children of God with the potential to become like Him (Romans 8:17; Doctrine and Covenants 93:29), while traditional Christianity typically emphasizes God’s complete transcendence.
Latter-day Saints find their understanding of the Godhead supported in events like Joseph Smith’s First Vision, where he saw God the Father and Jesus Christ as two distinct individuals. This powerful, personal revelation set a theological framework that redefined Christian doctrine for believers in the Restoration.
Furthermore, LDS theology looks to biblical texts (like John 17:20-22), where Jesus prays for His disciples to be “one” as He and the Father are one. This unity is not about fusing into a single being but working in perfect harmony.
For critics like Soncrants, the LDS emphasis on the individuality of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost may feel foreign or even heretical—but the LDS perspective seeks to restore a plain and direct understanding of divinity, as revealed in scripture and modern revelation. This approach allows believers to see God not as an abstract, unknowable force but as loving, approachable, and deeply involved in the salvation of all humankind.
Addressing Misrepresentation of LDS Theology
Misrepresentation often stems from misunderstanding or deliberate oversimplification. Critics of Latter-day Saint doctrine, like Andrew Soncrants, frequently frame LDS teachings as deceptive or incompatible with Christianity’s foundation. To address such concerns, we must lean on scripture, historical context, and rational discussion to clarify what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints actually believes and teaches about God, the Godhead, and faith.
The 'Christianese' Fallacy
Some critics argue that Latter-day Saints co-opt “Christianese” — the common terminologies of Christian belief — to mask doctrinal differences. They claim LDS usage of terms like “Godhead” or “Eternal Father” is designed to sound mainstream while hiding significant theological deviations. But this argument fails to account for the scriptural basis and doctrinal clarity behind LDS teachings.
The LDS Church teaches about God using plain, meaningful language, grounded in scripture. For instance, the term "Godhead" reflects a biblical reality rather than an attempt to align superficially with Trinitarian Christians. Genesis 1:26 states, "Let us make man in our image," implying a collaborative plurality in the Godhead. Similarly, at the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:16-17), we see the Father speaking from heaven, the Son being baptized, and the Holy Ghost descending like a dove. The LDS interpretation directly respects these scriptural events without overcomplicating or abstracting their meaning.
Far from misleading, LDS teachings emphasize clarity and accessibility. Critics often cite Joseph Smith’s revelations as proof of deviation, but his goal was to restore truths from early Christianity, not invent new theology. By "restoration," the Church means returning to practices and beliefs found in scripture and the Savior’s ministry, not reinventing them.
What about accusations of twisting terms? Terms like salvation, atonement, and revelation may carry unique LDS nuances, but this doesn’t make them deceptive. Think of it like regional accents; the words are the same, but pronunciation or emphasis changes. The Church embraces a scripturally based understanding that may differ from traditional interpretations, but it is neither insincere nor designed to mislead.
Unity in the Godhead: The Biblical Context
At the heart of the LDS doctrine is the Godhead: God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. They are separate and distinct beings, united in purpose and glory. Critics such as Soncrants propose this idea of "unity in purpose" deviates too far from the traditional Christian Trinity. But does it, really?
Let’s examine Jesus’s words in John 17:21-22. He prayed that His disciples “may be one, even as we are one.” It’s clear that Christ was talking about unity in intention and effort, not merging into one essence. Similarly, the LDS concept of the Godhead respects each member’s individual personhood while honoring their complete harmony in will and purpose.
Scripturally, the notion of distinct roles is evident. Consider Acts 7:55-56—Stephen sees both God the Father and Jesus Christ standing at His right hand. If they were one indivisible substance, why not present as such? The LDS view aligns more literally with these accounts, making the relationships tangible and relatable for believers.
Here’s a helpful analogy: consider a family with a shared goal to create a nurturing home. Each member has unique roles but works in synchronization toward that common mission. The LDS version of the Godhead offers the same relatable dynamic—distinct, yet perfectly united.
For critics, the physicality of God is another sticking point. Doctrine and Covenants 130:22 explains that the Father and Son have tangible, glorified bodies, while the Holy Ghost is a being of spirit. This teaching resonates with the idea of a relational, personable God who can interact with His children. It may contrast with the Trinity’s immaterial essence, but it doesn’t compromise God's divinity or infinite power. It simply makes Him more approachable and comprehensible.
In the end, the LDS doctrine underscores a thoroughly biblical principle: individuality can enhance harmony. The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are united in achieving God’s work of bringing "to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39). What better representation of divine love and cooperation could there be?
The Eternal Nature of God the Father
Understanding the eternal nature of our Heavenly Father is central to responding to criticisms and misconceptions about LDS theology. By grounding our beliefs in scripture and focusing on the unique revelations of the Restoration, we can see how the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints harmonize with God’s eternal essence while providing clarity on misunderstood doctrines.
Psalm 90 and God's Eternal Purpose
Psalm 90:2 declares, "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God." This verse affirms God's timeless existence and majestic sovereignty. Critics, including Andrew Soncrants, argue that Latter-day Saint theology somehow denies or diminishes this eternal reality, but the truth couldn’t be more different.
In LDS theology, God is recognized as an eternal, unchanging being with a divine purpose. The phrase "from everlasting to everlasting" reflects God's infinite presence—not bound by time or space, but existing beyond the confines of creation. For Latter-day Saints, this scripture underscores the foundational belief that God the Father is the same yesterday, today, and forever (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:12). It emphasizes the eternal consistency of His character.
Some might point to the LDS concept of eternal progression or statements like Joseph Smith's King Follett Discourse to question God's constancy. However, these teachings do not conflict with Psalm 90. Instead, they enrich our understanding of God's nature, offering us a perspective that He operates within an eternal framework that is far beyond human comprehension. His purpose—bringing "to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39)—and His attributes are unchanging. Just as Psalm 90 contrasts mortal life’s brevity with God’s immortality, LDS teachings emphasize that humankind's opportunity for exaltation exists within God's timeless plan.
For believers, this concept is not abstract but deeply personal. How does God's eternal nature affect our lives? It provides a foundation of trust. Knowing that we worship a God who is constant, eternal, and deeply invested in His children allows us to face the uncertainties of mortality with faith and hope.
Clarifying the Concept of Exaltation
The doctrine of exaltation is one of the most misunderstood aspects of LDS theology. Critics like Soncrants often portray it as a fringe belief, suggesting that humans somehow "replace" God or diminish His eternal role. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Exaltation, as taught in the Restored Gospel, does not change or lessen God's eternal nature. It is a manifestation of His love. God’s eternal purpose is to guide His children toward a fullness of joy, which includes the opportunity to become like Him. This concept is grounded in biblical principles. Romans 8:17 teaches that we are "heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ," while 1 John 3:2 declares, "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him."
Does the possibility of human exaltation suggest that God becomes irrelevant? Not at all. God remains sovereign, omnipotent, and central to the eternal plan. Latter-day Saints do not believe in dethroning God or diminishing His divinity. Instead, exaltation reflects His infinite love and generosity. Consider it like a flame that ignites other flames; sharing His divine attributes does not reduce His light but increases it.
A key misunderstanding often arises from discussions of "eternal progression.” Some critics equate this teaching with the idea of the Father "progressing" in a way that implies imperfection. However, Latter-day Saints understand that eternal progression applies not to God’s divine nature but to His ongoing work in bringing to pass humanity's eternal exaltation. Exaltation is not about overthrowing God but participating in His eternal work and joy.
The doctrine of exaltation helps us grasp the familial nature of God's plan. He is literally our Father, and our progression reflects His desire for us to grow eternally. It’s not a competition but a collaboration, grounded in love. Far from being incompatible with God's eternal nature, exaltation reveals just how profound and unchanging His purpose is.
Mischaracterizations of Jesus Christ in LDS Belief
Andrew Soncrants' critiques of Latter-day Saint theology include challenging the portrayal of Jesus Christ and His role within the Godhead. These criticisms often reflect a lack of understanding or a deliberate misrepresentation of LDS doctrine. It’s vital to address these points, particularly how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints views Jesus as the Savior and His pre-mortal role in God’s plan.
Jesus Christ: The Eternal Savior
Latter-day Saints firmly accept Jesus Christ as the Eternal Savior and the Only Begotten Son of God. This belief is foundational to the doctrine of the Church, shaping how members see themselves in relation to God and understand their eternal purpose. Jesus Christ is not merely a moral teacher or prophet; He is the divine Redeemer, chosen by the Father to atone for humanity's sins.
Critics often mischaracterize the LDS view of Christ, accusing the Church of presenting Him as subordinate to God the Father in a way that diminishes His divinity. However, this perspective oversimplifies LDS theology.
In LDS belief:
- Jesus is co-eternal with God the Father, meaning He existed with God before the foundation of the world (John 1:1–3).
- He is fully divine, possessing attributes of Godhood, yet distinct as a personage from the Father. This distinction reflects the same oneness in purpose that Jesus Himself emphasized in John 17.
- Jesus is the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, meaning His mortal life was uniquely initiated by a divine conception.
This clear distinction highlights a personal, relational Savior—one who advocates on behalf of humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). Unlike many interpretations of the Trinity, where Jesus and the Father are seen as one substance, LDS doctrine emphasizes their profound love and unity in carrying out God’s eternal plan of salvation.
Soncrants' remarks fail to grasp the harmonious relationship presented in the LDS view of the Godhead. Jesus Christ is neither an abstract deity nor a secondary figure but the central figure in Heavenly Father’s plan. His atonement in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross underscores Latter-day Saints’ belief in a deeply compassionate and approachable Savior.
Pre-Mortal Existence and the Savior's Role
A unique aspect of Latter-day Saint theology, often misunderstood, is the doctrine of pre-mortal existence. This teaching fundamentally shapes the LDS understanding of Jesus Christ’s divine role and mission.
Before coming to earth, all human beings, including Jesus, lived in a pre-mortal state as spirit children of God the Father (Jeremiah 1:5). Jesus, as the firstborn spirit, held a preeminent position: He was chosen in the grand council in heaven to carry out the Father’s plan. His role as Savior was determined long before the creation of the world.
Here’s what this means:
- In LDS belief, Jesus Christ volunteered to be the Redeemer, offering Himself to fulfill the demands of justice and bring mercy to humankind.
- His decision contrasts with Lucifer, who sought to coerce humanity and take God’s glory for himself.
- This choice established Christ’s role as the embodiment of perfect love, selflessness, and obedience to the Father’s will.
When critics like Soncrants dismiss LDS teachings on pre-mortal existence, they fail to grasp the depth it adds to the Savior’s mission. The pre-mortal Jesus was a willing participant in Heavenly Father’s plan, not a detached or impersonal force. This doctrine illuminates why Jesus Christ was uniquely qualified to atone for our sins. He knew the Father’s will intimately, having existed alongside Him for eternity.
This teaching also answers a profound question: Why was Jesus Christ chosen? While all spirits are beloved children of God, Jesus was the only one capable of carrying out the infinite atonement. As the Only Begotten Son, He had the divine attributes necessary to bridge the gap between mortal imperfection and God’s perfect justice.
For Latter-day Saints, understanding Jesus’ pre-mortal role enriches their relationship with Him. He isn’t just a historical figure or a symbol; He’s a brother, a Redeemer who has loved humanity from the very beginning. This deeply personalized view stands in contrast to critics’ accusations of detachment or inconsistency in LDS Christology.
To dismiss or distort these teachings, as Soncrants has done, is to misrepresent the love and hope central to the gospel of Jesus Christ. By understanding His divine mission—both in pre-mortality and in mortality—it becomes clear that the LDS portrayal of Christ is consistent with biblical accounts and offers profound spiritual insights.
The Holy Ghost in LDS Theology
The Holy Ghost holds a unique and sacred role in the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). As the third member of the Godhead, He is central to God’s plan for humanity, yet distinct in His divine mission. His presence offers a deeply personal connection between individuals and the divine, testifying of truth and guiding believers to Jesus Christ. However, the Holy Ghost’s divine identity is often misunderstood or misrepresented by critics. Addressing these misconceptions is essential to understanding LDS teachings.
The Holy Ghost as a Member of the Godhead
In LDS theology, the Holy Ghost is a distinct personage of spirit and a fully divine being. Unlike God the Father and Jesus Christ, who have glorified physical bodies, the Holy Ghost exists as a spirit, enabling Him to fulfill His crucial role as a constant companion, teacher, and witness of truth. He serves as a direct link between God and His children, guiding them toward salvation.
The unique responsibilities of the Holy Ghost include:
- Testifying of the Father and the Son: The Holy Ghost confirms the reality of God the Father and Jesus Christ to believers (John 15:26).
- Revealing truth: He enables individuals to discern spiritual truths, illuminating the scriptures and providing personal revelation (Moroni 10:5).
- Sanctifying: The Holy Ghost cleanses and refines individuals as they repent and turn to Christ, preparing them for eternal life.
- Comforting: As the “Comforter” (John 14:26), the Holy Ghost provides solace and strength during trials.
This sacred role is amplified in the LDS doctrine of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, a blessing that allows baptized members to receive His constant companionship, contingent upon their worthiness. Through this gift, believers gain a more profound guidance in their daily lives, something described as “the still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12).
The Holy Ghost is not independent or detached from the rest of the Godhead. Instead, He works in perfect unity with the Father and the Son to fulfill God’s eternal purpose: “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). His role is indispensable in helping individuals navigate the path of salvation and align their lives with divine principles.
Refuting Claims of Diminished Divinity
Critics sometimes assert that the LDS depiction of the Holy Ghost diminishes His divine status, suggesting that His lack of a physical body or different role implies subordination or limitations within the Godhead. This perspective misinterprets LDS doctrine and fails to account for scriptural evidence.
Far from being lesser in divinity, LDS teachings affirm that the Holy Ghost is co-equal with God the Father and Jesus Christ in power, knowledge, and purpose. His spiritual nature does not detract from His godhood; rather, it equips Him to fulfill specific aspects of the divine plan that require His unique attributes. For example, His ability to dwell within and testify to all people simultaneously is a manifestation of perfect omnipresence achieved through His spirit form. In John 16:7-13, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Ghost’s role, referring to Him as the “Spirit of truth” who will guide believers into all truth.
It’s also worth noting the LDS belief that the members of the Godhead voluntarily assume their roles within God’s plan. The Holy Ghost’s work is deeply complimentary to that of the Father and the Son, not inferior. Just as Jesus Christ is the Savior and Mediator while the Father oversees the plan of salvation, the Holy Ghost’s role as a witness and sanctifier is uniquely his. These roles do not imply difference in divine worth but reflect the harmonious division of responsibilities within the Godhead.
Additionally, LDS scripture confirms that the Holy Ghost possesses attributes characteristic of divinity:
- Omniscience: He knows the thoughts and intents of the heart, as seen in Alma 37:6.
- Omnipresence: His spiritual nature allows Him to reach all of God’s children simultaneously.
- Eternality: The Holy Ghost, like the Father and the Son, is eternal, without beginning or end.
Critics like Andrew Soncrants may argue that the individuality of the Godhead undermines their unity and equality. However, LDS theology highlights that unity doesn’t require sameness. Just as a symphony achieves harmony with distinct instruments contributing their unique sounds, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost maintain their individuality while working in perfect concert to accomplish God’s will.
To say the Holy Ghost lacks divinity is to disregard His role in scripture, His attributes, and His power. As part of the Godhead, He exemplifies divine love and cooperation, tirelessly guiding and uplifting God’s children on their journey back to Him. For Latter-day Saints, learning to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost is a sacred part of developing faith and drawing nearer to God.
Grace, Works, and the Path to Exaltation
The profound relationship between grace, works, and humanity’s eternal potential stands at the center of Latter-day Saint theology. For those of us who seek to reconcile faith and obedience in our daily lives, understanding this dynamic is crucial. Exaltation, or eternal life in God’s presence, depends on both the grace of Jesus Christ and our willingness to live His teachings. Let’s explore how these principles function together in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Faith, Obedience, and Christ’s Atonement
Faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation for both salvation and exaltation. Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ made it possible for everyone to overcome sin and death. But here’s the key: faith isn’t passive. It propels us to action. If grace is the seed, works are the nurturing hands that cultivate it to grow into eternal blessings.
Many critics mistake the Latter-day Saint perspective on grace as placing undue emphasis on works. This isn’t true. We believe salvation begins with Christ. His grace is the enabling power that allows us to overcome our shortcomings. But salvation, particularly exaltation, requires that we also act. In James 2:17, we’re reminded that “faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” This does not diminish grace; it magnifies it.
Obedience to the commandments is how we show our love for God. As Christ taught in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." These aren’t arbitrary rules but the divine pathway to transform us. It’s like learning to play a musical instrument. Grace is the instructor that makes it possible, but practice—the “work”—is what enables us to become proficient. Together, grace and effort lead to spiritual harmony.
Critics often argue that salvation should be freely given. And it is! Everyone will receive resurrection through Christ’s grace. But exaltation—becoming like God and enjoying eternal family relationships—requires us to do more. This is not because God demands payment but because becoming like Him requires us to stretch and grow spiritually. Without obedience, we can’t become the kind of beings capable of living in His presence.
Biblical Foundations for Obedience and Discipleship
Scripture is filled with clear teachings that obedience is an inseparable companion to faith. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who showed their devotion to God through their actions. Let’s explore some of these together:
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The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-27)
Jesus Himself explained that hearing His words isn’t enough. He said, “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock.” Obedience anchors us to Christ, the unshakable foundation.
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Abraham’s Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22)
Abraham didn’t just believe God’s promises; he acted on them. His willingness to obey God, even in an almost unimaginable trial, demonstrated his faith. Through this obedience, we see a model of trust and discipleship.
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Jesus and the Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-22)
The Savior Himself taught the importance of obedience when He invited the rich young man to sell all he had, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man believed in Christ but struggled to act, showcasing the difference between passive belief and active discipleship.
Obedience isn’t about earning salvation; it’s about aligning our actions with God’s will. Christ didn’t just teach us to believe in Him; He taught us to become like Him. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) reminds us to teach others to observe all that Christ has commanded. This isn’t just doctrinal—it’s deeply personal. Obedience refines our hearts and builds trust in God’s plan.
Finally, 1 John 2:3-6 lays it out plainly: “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” Obedience has never been a checklist; it’s a reflection of our faith and love.
As we walk this path of faith and discipleship, we need both grace and works to guide us toward exaltation. Think about it like climbing a mountain. Grace is the safety rope that protects us and provides a way, but we’ve got to make the climb. Together, this partnership with God allows us to become more than we ever could on our own. God’s plan isn’t just about saving us—it’s about preparing us to stand in His presence and continue to grow for eternity.
The Need for Respectful Dialogue in Religious Discourse
In religious discussions, emotions often run high. Faith is personal, deeply tied to identity, and discussions about it can feel like navigating a minefield. But meaningful dialogue isn't about proving who's right—it's about understanding, learning, and connecting. For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, respectful engagement is not just courteous; it's foundational to defending the Restored Gospel and promoting Christlike love.
Avoiding Toxic Apologetics
Religious debates often fall into the trap of toxic apologetics, where the goal shifts from understanding to "winning" at any cost. This leads to strawman arguments and misrepresentations instead of meaningful discussion. When critics like Andrew Soncrants misrepresent LDS beliefs, such as the nature of the Godhead, it twists the conversation into something counterproductive.
What’s a strawman argument? Picture a scarecrow—it doesn’t represent a real person, just an imitation. Critics build these “scarecrows” of LDS theology by distorting teachings to make them easier to tear down. For example:
- Claiming Latter-day Saints worship “a different God” because they reject the Trinity’s philosophical underpinnings.
- Accusing LDS teachings of polytheism when the belief clearly defines a unified Godhead with distinct roles.
This approach fuels division, not understanding. It’s like arguing with a caricature instead of the real person standing in front of you. We’ve all seen or engaged in debates where emotions rule and genuine understanding takes a backseat. But toxic tactics only polarize and confirm stereotypes.
The antidote? Accuracy and fairness. Quoting scripture directly, like Matthew 3:16-17, which shows the distinction between the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, shifts the focus back to truth. Every faithful discussion must begin here: letting scriptures and doctrines speak for themselves without distortion. Misrepresentation isn’t harmless banter—it builds walls that prevent real conversations.
A Call for Constructive Engagement
What if we approached theological differences like learning a new language instead of preparing for a courtroom debate? Constructive engagement invites open dialogue where mutual respect and a shared desire to understand take precedence over defensiveness. LDS theology thrives in settings where beliefs can be openly explained without contention.
Is it possible to discuss heated topics and still remain respectful? Absolutely. It’s about creating space for curiosity and humility. Here are three steps I value when engaging in discussions about faith:
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Ask questions, don’t just argue.
Instead of assuming someone misunderstands LDS beliefs intentionally, ask what they’ve learned and where their knowledge comes from. Questions like, “What do you think LDS doctrine teaches about God?” open doors to clarification.
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Separate belief from intent.
Even if someone disagrees, their goal may not be to ridicule or attack. Assuming goodwill encourages a more inclusive tone. Remember, Christ taught, “Love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44), so surely, we can respect those who merely disagree.
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Look for common ground.
Whether it’s shared admiration for Christ’s sacrifice or agreement on the need for devotion, find a foundation for connection. This humanizes the dialogue and reminds both parties of shared spiritual goals.
For example, when discussing the Godhead versus the Trinity with mainstream Christians, I’ve found it useful to focus on the shared belief in Christ’s divinity. From there, I can explain why LDS doctrine emphasizes their distinct roles. It’s not about “us versus them” but about clarifying how LDS teachings enrich this understanding.
Ultimately, the most Christlike discussions are those committed to both truth and love. In John 13:34-35, Christ said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Respectful dialogue isn’t just practical—it’s evidence of discipleship. If we lose sight of love in defending our faith, we miss the true purpose of the gospel.
Faith discussions don’t require everyone to leave agreeing—but they should leave understanding. Clear, respectful dialogue plants seed of insight, even when immediate agreement isn’t achieved. That’s the goal worth pursuing.
Conclusion
The First Article of Faith is far more than a doctrinal statement; it’s a declaration of understanding about God’s nature. Misinterpretations often reduce its profound meaning into oversimplified arguments, as seen in Andrew Soncrants' critique. However, addressing these misrepresentations provides an opportunity to clarify and strengthen shared faith in God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
Rather than fostering division, discussions like this should focus on mutual respect and shared beliefs in Christ’s divine role, providing common ground for productive dialogue. The distinctions between the LDS understanding of the Godhead and traditional Christian dogmas like the Trinity serve not to divide believers but to deepen our collective quest to comprehend God’s eternal purpose.
By grounding explanations in scripture and speaking with love, we create opportunities for understanding while defending the truths of the Restored Gospel. Ultimately, our faith compels us to extend Christlike love when engaging with critics. God's plan is one of unity, purpose, and salvation—and that is the shared immovable truth that should guide our discussions.
