Understanding different faiths and religions is crucial in today’s diverse world. Among the various Christian denominations, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as Mormons, stands out with its unique history and set of beliefs. So, What Are Mormons all about? This article delves into the core tenets of Mormonism, aiming to provide a comprehensive and accessible understanding of their faith, practices, and place in the broader Christian landscape.
Mormonism centers on the teachings and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members of this Church believe in the restoration of Jesus Christ’s original Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith. At the heart of their faith is a deep love for Jesus Christ, whom they consider central to their beliefs and way of life.
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are active participants in communities worldwide, contributing to various sectors of society. They are found in business, education, government, arts, and sciences, reflecting a diverse and engaged global membership.
As Newsweek magazine aptly described, “No matter where Mormons live, they find themselves part of a network of mutual concern; in Mormon theology everyone is a minister of a kind, everyone is empowered in some way to do good to others, and to have good done unto them: it is a 21st century covenant of caring. This caring is not limited to Church members alone, but extends far beyond.” This highlights the strong community focus and outward-looking approach that characterizes Mormon culture.
Despite being the fourth largest Christian church in the United States and having a global presence with more than half of its members residing outside the US, many people remain unfamiliar with Mormon beliefs. This article aims to address this gap in understanding by clearly outlining the fundamental doctrines and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, moving beyond common misconceptions and providing a clear picture of what are Mormons and what they believe.
Core Beliefs of Mormonism
To truly understand what are Mormons, it’s essential to explore their core beliefs. These beliefs are rooted in both the Bible and additional scriptures, shaping their worldview and daily lives. Founder Joseph Smith articulated the central position of Jesus Christ in Mormonism, stating, “The fundamental principles of our religion are … concerning Jesus Christ that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.”
Beyond this foundational belief in Jesus Christ, Latter-day Saints unequivocally believe in several key doctrines:
- Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world and the Son of our loving Heavenly Father.
- Christ’s Atonement enables humanity to be saved from sin and return to live with God and their families eternally.
- Christ’s original Church, as described in the New Testament, has been restored in modern times.
Let’s examine each of these core tenets in more detail to gain a deeper understanding of what are Mormons believe.
Jesus Christ: The Savior and Son of God
Latter-day Saints firmly believe that God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to be the Savior of all humankind. This belief is grounded in scriptures like John 3:16, emphasizing God’s love for the world. They view God as a loving Heavenly Father who is intimately aware of each of His children, hears and answers their prayers, and offers them compassion. While Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are distinct beings, along with the Holy Ghost, they are united in purpose, will, and love, forming the Godhead.
Worship of Jesus Christ is central to Mormon life. He is revered as their Savior and Redeemer. Members of the Church strive to follow His teachings and example in all aspects of their lives. This includes being baptized as Christ was (Matthew 3:13-17), praying in His name (Matthew 6:9-13), partaking of the sacrament (communion) in remembrance of Him (Luke 22:19-20), engaging in acts of service and kindness towards others (Acts 10:38), and sharing their testimony of Him through words and actions (James 2:26). For Mormons, Jesus Christ is not just a historical figure but a living, divine being who guides their path and offers them hope.
The Atonement of Jesus Christ: Salvation and Eternal Families
A cornerstone of Mormon belief is the doctrine of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Latter-day Saints believe that God has a plan for His children to return to live with Him and become “joint-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). They see Jesus Christ’s sacrifice as absolutely central to God’s plan for humanity’s happiness and eternal progression. Mormons understand that life on earth is a time for learning, growth, and overcoming challenges. They believe that through making mistakes and experiencing sin, humans have the opportunity to learn and progress.
Through following Christ’s teachings, embracing His mercy, and participating in ordinances such as baptism, Mormons believe they can be cleansed from sin through Christ’s atoning sacrifice. This cleansing allows them to return to live in God’s presence and, importantly, to be united with their families eternally. The emphasis on eternal families is a distinctive aspect of Mormon belief, highlighting the importance of family relationships that extend beyond mortal life.
The Restoration of Christ’s Original Church
Another defining belief that answers what are Mormons believe is the concept of the Restoration. Latter-day Saints believe that the Church established by Jesus Christ in ancient times, built upon the “foundation of the apostles and prophets” (Ephesians 2:20), was gradually lost from the earth following the death of the original apostles. They believe that the “one faith” (Ephesians 4:5) became fragmented over time, and the authority to lead Christ’s Church was diminished.
Mormons believe that in modern times, God has restored His Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith, beginning in the early 19th century. This restoration includes the reinstatement of living apostles and prophets who receive divine guidance to lead the Church today. They see The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a continuation of the original Church established by Jesus Christ, with the same doctrines, priesthood authority, and spiritual gifts. This belief in restoration is a key factor distinguishing Mormonism from other Christian denominations.
Joseph Smith’s farm in Palmyra, New York, a significant location in the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Who Are The Mormons? Global Community and Way of Life
Beyond understanding what are Mormons believe, it’s important to consider who they are as a people and how their faith shapes their lives. Mormons are a global community, united by their shared faith in Jesus Christ and the restored gospel.
Global Presence and Community
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a significant global presence, with congregations and temples in numerous countries around the world. While its roots are in the United States, more than half of its membership resides outside of the US, demonstrating its worldwide reach. This global community is characterized by a strong sense of unity and mutual support. Local congregations, known as wards or branches, provide a network of fellowship and assistance for members. This sense of community extends beyond geographical boundaries, with Mormons feeling a connection to fellow believers worldwide.
The emphasis on service and caring for others is a hallmark of Mormon culture. Members are encouraged to actively participate in their communities, contributing through charitable work, volunteering, and civic engagement. This commitment to service reflects their belief in following Jesus Christ’s example of love and compassion.
Addressing Misconceptions and Promoting Accurate Reporting
Despite their global presence and community engagement, Mormonism is sometimes subject to misconceptions and misrepresentations. The original article rightly points out that media reporting can sometimes focus on peripheral aspects of the faith or emphasize differences in ways that distort the overall picture. It stresses the importance of accurate and honest journalism that reflects the faith as lived and believed by its members, rather than sensationalizing or misrepresenting abstract ideas.
The Church encourages open and honest inquiry from media outlets and aims to provide clear and accurate information about its teachings. Understanding what are Mormons truly believe requires moving beyond stereotypes and engaging with reliable sources of information, such as the Church’s official website and publications.
Key Aspects of Mormon Faith and Practice: FAQs Explained
To further clarify what are Mormons and their faith, let’s address some frequently asked questions, expanding upon the original FAQs section to provide more detailed explanations.
Are Mormons Christian?
Yes, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a Christian church. Members consider themselves followers of Jesus Christ and believe in Him as their Savior and Redeemer. However, Mormonism is distinct from other Christian denominations like Catholicism and Protestantism. Latter-day Saints view their faith as a restoration of the original Church of Jesus Christ, as established in the New Testament. They do not adhere to the creeds developed in later centuries that are central to many other Christian churches.
Mormon Christianity emphasizes a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, following His teachings, and living a Christ-centered life. They believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement. While sharing core Christian beliefs, Mormonism also includes unique doctrines and scriptures that differentiate it within the broader Christian family.
What Do Mormons Believe About God? (The Godhead)
Mormons believe in God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, whom they collectively refer to as the Godhead. This is their equivalent of the Trinity. They view God as their Heavenly Father, the Father of all human spirits, who are created in His image. They believe God is a loving, just, all-wise, and all-powerful being.
While believing in the unity of the Godhead in purpose and will, Latter-day Saints understand the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost as distinct beings, not as a single being or substance. This perspective differs from some traditional interpretations of the Trinity. Mormons believe that God the Father has a glorified, tangible body, while the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit. Jesus Christ also has a tangible body of flesh and bone, glorified and resurrected.
What is the Mormon View of the Purpose of Life?
For Latter-day Saints, life has a grand, eternal purpose. They view mortal existence as part of a larger journey that began with a pre-mortal life with God and extends into a future life in His presence. They believe that life on earth is a temporary but crucial phase where individuals are tested, learn, and grow. It is a time to gain experiences and develop qualities that cannot be obtained elsewhere.
Mormons believe that God’s plan for His children includes eternal progression and becoming more like Him. They see earthly life as an opportunity to progress spiritually, overcome challenges, and prepare for eternal life. Physical death is not seen as the end but as a transition to the next stage in God’s plan, leading to continued growth and learning in the eternities.
Do Mormons Believe in the Bible?
Yes, Mormons deeply revere the Bible as the word of God and a sacred volume of scripture. They study the Bible extensively, cherish its teachings, and consider it a source of divine wisdom. The Bible is used in Church worship services and is central to their scriptural study.
In addition to the Bible, Mormons also hold the Book of Mormon as scripture, another testament of Jesus Christ. They see the Book of Mormon as strengthening and complementing the Bible, providing additional witnesses and insights into God’s dealings with humanity. They do not view the Book of Mormon as replacing the Bible but as working in harmony with it to expand and enrich their understanding of God’s word.
What is the Book of Mormon?
The Book of Mormon is a unique scripture to Mormonism, serving as a companion scripture to the Bible. Latter-day Saints consider it another testament of Jesus Christ, containing the writings of ancient prophets who lived on the American continent. It recounts God’s interactions with these ancient American civilizations and testifies of Jesus Christ’s ministry to them.
The Book of Mormon covers a period of history from around 600 BC to 421 AD. It contains spiritual teachings, historical accounts, prophecies, and testimonies of Jesus Christ. For Mormons, it stands alongside the Old and New Testaments of the Bible as holy scripture, providing further evidence of God’s love for all His children and the divinity of Jesus Christ.
A page from the original manuscript of the Book of Mormon, highlighting its historical significance to Latter-day Saints.
What is a Mormon Temple?
Temples hold a very sacred place in Mormonism. Drawing from biblical traditions of temples as houses of the Lord, Latter-day Saint temples are considered dedicated spaces for special worship and ordinances. They are distinct from regular meetinghouses or chapels, where weekly Sunday services are held.
Mormon temples are dedicated to specific purposes, including teaching about Jesus Christ’s central role in God’s plan of salvation and strengthening the personal relationship between individuals and God. Within temples, members make sacred covenants with God, promising to live faithful and virtuous lives. Temples are also the places where sacred ordinances are performed, such as marriages that are considered eternal and proxy ordinances for deceased ancestors. Temples are seen as houses of holiness, peace, and spiritual learning, requiring members to live worthily to enter.
Do Latter-day Saints Believe in Modern-Day Prophets?
Yes, a key aspect of Mormon belief is the doctrine of continuing revelation through modern-day prophets and apostles. Latter-day Saints believe that God continues to communicate with humanity today, just as He did in biblical times. The Church is led by apostles and prophets, mirroring the structure of Christ’s original Church.
The First Presidency, composed of the President of the Church (considered the prophet) and his two counselors, along with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, guide the Church worldwide. They are considered special witnesses of Jesus Christ and receive divine revelation to lead the Church. Members believe that these leaders are inspired by God to provide guidance and direction for the Church and the world today, just as prophets and apostles did in the Bible.
Do Latter-day Saints Believe Apostles Receive Revelations from God?
Yes, revelation is a fundamental principle in Mormonism. Latter-day Saints believe that God communicates with His children through the Holy Spirit, offering guidance, inspiration, and answers to prayers. They understand revelation in a broad sense, encompassing divine communication in various forms, from dramatic visions to subtle promptings.
While acknowledging dramatic revelations in scripture, Mormons generally believe that revelation in modern times often comes quietly, through impressions, thoughts, and feelings inspired by the Holy Spirit. They see revelation as an ongoing dialogue with God, involving prayerful seeking, study, and thoughtful consideration. Leaders of the Church, particularly the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, receive revelation to guide the Church as a whole, while individuals can also receive personal revelation to guide their lives.
Do Mormon Women Lead in the Church?
Yes, women play vital and significant roles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While priesthood ordination is reserved for worthy men, women are considered equal in the sight of God and make essential contributions to the Church at all levels.
From the Church’s beginning, women have served as leaders, teachers, missionaries, counselors, and in numerous other capacities. They routinely speak from the pulpit, lead prayers in worship services, and serve in leadership positions in auxiliary organizations within the Church. Women also play a crucial role in their families, considered equal partners with their husbands in raising children and leading their families. Their contributions within the Church and in their communities are highly valued and essential to the functioning and strength of Mormon society.
Do Latter-day Saints Believe They Can Become “Gods”?
Latter-day Saints believe in the potential for eternal progression and becoming more like God, but this teaching is often misunderstood. They base this belief on biblical passages suggesting that humans are children of God and heirs to His kingdom (Romans 8:16-17). They interpret scriptures like 2 Peter 1:4, which speaks of becoming “partakers of the divine nature,” as indicating a potential for spiritual growth and development that is far beyond current mortal comprehension.
However, the Mormon concept of becoming like God is not about becoming the God of a planet or universe, as sometimes caricatured. It is focused on spiritual and righteous development, becoming perfected in love, knowledge, and divine attributes, in partnership with Jesus Christ. This teaching emphasizes the immense potential of humanity and God’s desire for His children’s ultimate happiness and exaltation.
Do Latter-day Saints Believe They Will “Get Their Own Planet”?
No, the idea of Mormons “getting their own planet” is a misrepresentation and not a doctrine taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This misconception likely stems from speculative interpretations of scriptures about eternal life and exaltation. While Mormons believe in eternal progression and the vastness of God’s creations, the Church does not teach that individuals will become gods of their own planets.
The focus is on spiritual growth, eternal families, and inheriting eternal life in God’s kingdom. Speculations about the specifics of the afterlife are not central to Mormon doctrine, and the idea of “planet ownership” is not part of their official teachings. They focus on following Jesus Christ and living righteously to receive the blessings God has promised, without defining the exact nature of those blessings in such literal terms.
Do Some Latter-day Saints Wear Temple Garments?
Yes, faithful adult members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who have made temple covenants wear temple garments. These are simple, white underclothing worn daily as a personal reminder of the sacred covenants they have made with God. The garments consist of two pieces: a top and bottoms, similar to a T-shirt and shorts, and are worn underneath regular clothing.
Temple garments are viewed as sacred and are treated with respect. They serve as an outward expression of an inward commitment to live righteously and follow Jesus Christ. Similar to religious clothing in other faiths, they are a visible reminder of spiritual commitments and a symbol of dedication to God. The Church asks that media and others treat temple garments with respect and avoid ridicule or mockery, recognizing their sacred significance to Latter-day Saints.
Do Latter-day Saints Practice Polygamy?
No, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not practice polygamy. The practice of polygamy was officially discontinued by the Church in 1890. Today, polygamy is strictly prohibited, and any member found practicing it faces excommunication. Monogamy, the marriage of one man and one woman, is the standard and official teaching of the Church.
While polygamy was practiced by a minority of Latter-day Saints in the early years of the Church, it was discontinued over a century ago. The Church today unequivocally condemns polygamy, and those who practice it have no affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s crucial to distinguish between historical practices and current doctrine, as polygamy is not part of modern Mormonism.
What is the Position of the Church Regarding Race Relations?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone, regardless of race or background. They affirm the scripture in the Book of Mormon stating, “Black and white, bond and free, male and female; … all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33). This principle of equality is central to their doctrine.
While the Church had a past policy restricting priesthood ordination for men of African descent, this policy was changed in 1978. The Church now ordains all worthy male members to the priesthood, regardless of race. The Church unequivocally condemns racism in any form and teaches that all individuals are children of God and should be treated with love and respect. They actively promote racial harmony and understanding, acknowledging past injustices and striving to build a more inclusive and equitable community.
Do Mormons Believe the Garden of Eden is in Missouri?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not have a definitive doctrine about the precise location of the Garden of Eden. While Joseph Smith, the founding prophet, did teach that the Garden of Eden was in the Missouri area, this is not considered a core or essential doctrine of the Church.
The exact geographical location of the Garden of Eden is not emphasized in Mormon teachings. The focus is on the spiritual and symbolic significance of the Garden of Eden story, rather than its precise physical location. Belief in the Atonement of Jesus Christ and following His teachings are considered far more important for salvation than knowing the specific location of the Garden of Eden.
Why Do You “Baptize for the Dead”?
The practice of baptism for the dead, or proxy baptism, is a unique ordinance in Mormon temples. It is based on the New Testament scripture 1 Corinthians 15:29 and the belief that baptism is essential for salvation (John 3:5). Latter-day Saints believe that those who have died without the opportunity to be baptized can receive this ordinance vicariously.
Baptism for the dead is performed as a free-will offering on behalf of deceased individuals. According to Mormon doctrine, the deceased person in the afterlife has the agency to accept or reject this baptism. It is not seen as forced conversion but as an act of love and service to those who have passed away. Members are instructed to only perform proxy baptisms for their own deceased relatives, as an expression of familial love and connection.
Why Does the Church Send Out Missionaries?
Missionary work is a central aspect of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is based on the New Testament example of apostles and disciples going forth to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ (e.g., the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20). Mormon missionaries are sent throughout the world to share their beliefs, teach about Jesus Christ, and invite others to be baptized and become members of the Church.
Missionary service is voluntary, with most missionaries, typically young adults, funding their own missions. They serve for a period of 18 months to 2 years, dedicating their time to sharing their faith and serving others. Missionaries are sent to countries where the Church is permitted to operate and focus on teaching the gospel, performing community service, and building relationships.
Why Don’t Mormons Smoke or Drink Alcohol? (Word of Wisdom)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a health code known as the Word of Wisdom, revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833. This code outlines principles for healthy living and proscribes the use of substances deemed harmful to the body. According to the Word of Wisdom, Mormons abstain from alcohol, tobacco, tea, coffee, and illegal drugs.
This health code is based on the belief that the body is a temple and should be treated with respect and care. Following the Word of Wisdom is seen as a way to maintain physical and spiritual well-being. Studies have shown that Latter-day Saints who adhere to this health code tend to have longer life expectancies and lower rates of certain diseases, highlighting the positive health outcomes associated with these practices.
Conclusion: Understanding Mormonism Today
In conclusion, understanding what are Mormons involves recognizing their deep-seated faith in Jesus Christ, their belief in the Restoration of His Church, and their commitment to living according to His teachings. They are a global community striving to follow Christ’s example in their daily lives, emphasizing family, service, and personal spiritual growth. While distinct in some of their doctrines and scriptures, they share core Christian beliefs and values.
By exploring their core tenets, addressing common questions, and moving beyond misconceptions, we can gain a more accurate and nuanced understanding of Mormonism and its place in the world today. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormons, offer a unique and vibrant expression of Christian faith that continues to grow and influence lives around the globe.
This article is intended for informational purposes and provides a general overview of Mormon beliefs and practices. For more in-depth information, please refer to official Church resources and scholarly works on Mormonism.
