Mormons vs Christians
The world continues to see the growth and development of various religious denominations. For those seeking a religious community to join, understanding the differences between these groups can be helpful in making an informed decision. One common point of confusion is the distinction between Mormons and Christians. Understanding this distinction is important for those exploring their religious options.
Who is a Mormon?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, more commonly known as the Mormon Church, is considered part of Christianity. However, Mormonism has specific beliefs that diverge from other Christian denominations. Mormons believe that their church, founded by Joseph Smith, is a restoration of an early form of Christianity. Their primary scripture is the Book of Mormon, published by Smith in 1830. This book, along with the Bible, serves as a witness to the divinity of Christ and the reality of the atonement he made for all mankind.
Mormons also believe in a concept called exaltation, which is the idea that humans can achieve the highest degree of glory, similar to God. This is accomplished through living righteously on Earth and being purified by Christ’s atonement. They believe that faith and good works are interconnected. Additionally, Mormons practice a health code called the Word of Wisdom, which prohibits the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, coffee, tea, and other addictive substances.
Finally, Mormons believe in continuous revelation, meaning that they believe God has a prophet on Earth, currently Thomas S. Monson, who receives direct revelation from God. They also believe that individuals can receive personal revelation pertaining to their own lives.
Key Takeaways
- Mormons and Christians both believe in Jesus Christ and the Bible, but Mormons also follow the teachings of the Book of Mormon.
- While Christians believe in salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, Mormons believe in exaltation, which is achieved by living righteously and being purified by Christ’s atonement.
- Mormons follow a strict health code called the Word of Wisdom, and believe in continuous revelation through prophets and personal revelation for individuals.
Who is a Christian?
Christians are individuals who believe in and follow the teachings of Christianity, a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who they believe to be the Messiah as prophesied in the Bible. Christians also believe in the concept of the Trinity, which describes God as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Christian beliefs revolve around the creeds, which are statements of faith, and the concept of salvation, which involves dying, being resurrected, and entering heaven. Christians follow the Bible, which consists of the Old Testament and New Testament, and believe it was written by authors inspired by the Holy Spirit.
What is the difference between Mormon and Christian?
• Christians believe in one God, the Holy Spirit, the Trinity, and Jesus as the Messiah, while Mormons do not view God as one being or the Holy Spirit, and they reject the concept of the Trinity, believing in three separate Gods: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
• Mormons believe that God was once like humans.
• Christians believe in salvation, while Mormons believe in exaltation.
• Mormons believe their church restored Christianity from an early form, while Christians do not.
• Christians believe Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary, while Mormons believe his birth was natural.
• Christians view salvation as forgiveness of sins, while Mormons believe salvation exempts individuals from penalty and offers a way for the remission of personal sins.
• Mormons follow the teachings of the Book of Mormon, in addition to the Bible.
• Mormons practice a health code which prohibits the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, coffee, tea, and other addictive substances.
Ultimately, determining which religion is “better” is a subjective and personal decision. Despite the differences between Mormons and Christians, what truly matters is an individual’s faith in a higher power and how they live their lives and interact with others.
