What do Mormons believe?
Quick Answer
Mormons believe in Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon, modern revelation, and continuing prophets, following The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teachings. They view themselves as Christians who believe in additional scriptures and ongoing divine guidance through modern prophets.
Key Takeaways
- Mormons are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- They believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and follow Christian principles
- Accept the Bible and Book of Mormon as scripture
- Believe in modern-day prophets and continuing revelation
- Emphasize family values and eternal family relationships
- Practice various ordinances including baptism and temple ceremonies
Core Christian Beliefs
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consider themselves Christians and hold fundamental Christian beliefs:
Jesus Christ as Savior
- Divine nature: Jesus Christ is the Son of God
- Atonement: Christ's sacrifice provides salvation for humanity
- Resurrection: Jesus was literally resurrected from the dead
- Second Coming: Christ will return to earth
The Godhead
Latter-day Saints believe in the Godhead as three separate beings:
- God the Father: Heavenly Father, a resurrected being
- Jesus Christ: The Son, separate from but one in purpose with the Father
- Holy Ghost: A spirit being who provides guidance and comfort
Scripture and Revelation
Mormons accept multiple books as scripture and believe in continuing revelation:
Standard Works (Scriptures)
- The Bible: King James Version is the official English translation
- The Book of Mormon: Account of ancient American peoples
- Doctrine and Covenants: Modern revelations given to Joseph Smith
- Pearl of Great Price: Additional writings including Moses and Abraham
Modern Revelation
- Living prophets: The church president is considered a prophet
- Continuing revelation: God continues to speak through prophets
- Personal revelation: Individuals can receive guidance from God
- General conferences: Semi-annual meetings where leaders share guidance
Plan of Salvation
Mormons believe in a comprehensive plan for human existence and spiritual progression:
Pre-mortal Life
- Spirits existed with God before earthly birth
- Earth life is a time of testing and learning
- Free agency (choice) is fundamental to the plan
Mortal Life Purpose
- Faith development: Learning to trust in Christ
- Ordinances: Baptism and other ceremonies
- Service: Helping others and building God's kingdom
- Family: Marriage and family relationships are central
Life After Death
- Spirit world: Temporary state after death
- Resurrection: All people will be resurrected
- Degrees of glory: Different levels of eternal life
- Eternal families: Family relationships can continue eternally
Unique Doctrines and Practices
Several beliefs distinguish Latter-day Saints from other Christian denominations:
Restoration
- Great Apostasy: Belief that true Christianity was lost
- Restoration through Joseph Smith: True church restored in 1830
- Priesthood authority: Divine authority restored through angelic visitations
- Fullness of the Gospel: Complete gospel restored, not reformed
Temple Worship
- Sacred ordinances: Special ceremonies performed in temples
- Endowment ceremony: Sacred covenants and promises
- Eternal marriage: Marriage ceremonies that bind beyond death
- Work for the dead: Ordinances performed for deceased ancestors
Moral and Ethical Standards
Mormons follow specific lifestyle guidelines based on their beliefs:
Word of Wisdom
Health code that prohibits certain substances:
- No alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tea
- Emphasis on healthy eating and living
- Promises of spiritual and physical blessings
Moral Standards
- Chastity: Sexual relations only within marriage
- Honesty: Being truthful in all dealings
- Sabbath observance: Keeping Sunday holy
- Tithing: Donating 10% of income to the church
Family and Community Focus
Strong emphasis on family relationships and community service:
Family Values
- Eternal families: Family relationships can last forever
- Family home evening: Weekly family instruction and bonding
- Genealogy: Research and honor ancestors
- Marriage importance: Marriage between man and woman is central
Missionary Work
- Great Commission: Share the gospel with all people
- Young missionaries: Young men and women serve missions
- Member missionaries: All members encouraged to share beliefs
- Service missions: Humanitarian and service opportunities
Church Organization
The church operates under specific organizational principles:
Priesthood Leadership
- Lay ministry: No paid clergy at local levels
- Priesthood quorums: Men organized into leadership groups
- Women's organizations: Relief Society and other auxiliaries
- Common consent: Members vote to sustain leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mormons Christians?
Yes, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consider themselves Christians. They believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and follow His teachings, though they have additional beliefs that distinguish them from other Christian denominations.
Why do Mormons have additional scriptures besides the Bible?
Mormons believe God has revealed His word to different peoples throughout history. They view the Book of Mormon as a record of God's dealings with ancient American peoples, complementing rather than replacing the Bible.
What is the purpose of Mormon temples?
Mormon temples are considered houses of the Lord where the most sacred ordinances are performed, including eternal marriage ceremonies, endowments, and ordinances for deceased ancestors. They differ from regular meetinghouses.
Do Mormons believe in the Trinity?
Mormons believe in the Godhead as three separate beings - God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost - who are one in purpose but distinct individuals, which differs from traditional Trinitarian doctrine.
Why do Mormon missionaries serve for two years?
Young Mormon missionaries (men at 18, women at 19) can choose to serve missions to share their faith and serve others. This voluntary service helps develop spiritual maturity and dedication to their beliefs.
What is the Word of Wisdom?
The Word of Wisdom is a health code revealed to Joseph Smith that prohibits alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea while encouraging healthy living. Mormons view it as both a physical and spiritual law.
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