Exposing the False Teachings of the Latter Day Saints (Mormons)
The Latter Day Saints (LDS), also known as Mormons, have beliefs that differ significantly from what the Bible teaches. It is crucial to understand these differences because the Jesus they preach is not the Jesus revealed in the Bible, and the gospel they teach is not the gospel the Apostles preached. According to the Bible, this means they are under God’s curse.
Different Jesus
Mormons believe in a different version of Jesus than what the Bible teaches:
- Jesus is the spirit brother of Lucifer: Mormons teach that Jesus and Lucifer (Satan) are spirit brothers. This is not what the Bible says. The Bible teaches that Jesus is God’s only begotten Son and was not created. He has always existed. John 1:1-3 (NASB) says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.”
- Jesus is a separate god: Mormons believe that Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit are three separate gods. The Bible teaches that God is one being in three persons. Deuteronomy 6:4 (NASB) states, “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one!”
- Jesus became God: They teach that Jesus earned His divinity through obedience and good works. The Bible teaches that Jesus is eternally God. Colossians 2:9 (NASB) says, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form.”
Different Gospel
The gospel taught by the Mormons is also different from the biblical gospel:
- Salvation through works: Mormons believe that faith in Jesus is not enough for salvation. They teach that good works, such as missionary service and temple rituals, are necessary for salvation. The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace through faith alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB) says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
- Additional Scriptures: Mormons use additional scriptures like the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. The Bible warns against adding to God’s Word. Revelation 22:18-19 (NASB) states, “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book.”
Under God’s Curse
The Apostle Paul warned against false gospels. Galatians 1:8-9 (NASB) says, “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed!” According to this scripture, preaching a different gospel places one under God’s curse.
Joseph Smith: A False Teacher
Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, is a false teacher because he preached a false gospel built on lies and opposing biblical teachings:
- False Revelations: Smith claimed to have received new revelations from God that contradict the Bible. The Bible warns against false prophets. Matthew 24:24 (NASB) says, “For false Christ’s and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect.”
- Fabricated Scriptures: Smith introduced new scriptures that add to and contradict the Bible. As mentioned earlier, Revelation 22:18-19 warns against adding to God’s Word.
- Opposing Biblical Teachings: Smith’s teachings on the nature of God, Jesus, and salvation oppose the clear teachings of the Bible. This shows that his gospel is not the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Five Mormon Doctrines That Contradict Biblical Teachings
- Multiple Gods: Mormons believe in the existence of many gods. The Bible teaches there is only one God. Isaiah 44:6 (NASB) says, “Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the first and I am the last, And there is no God besides Me.'”
- God was once a man: Mormons believe God the Father was once a man who became a god. The Bible teaches that God is eternal and has always been God. Psalm 90:2 (NASB) says, “Before the mountains were born Or You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”
- Human Exaltation: Mormons believe humans can become gods. The Bible teaches that there is only one God and humans are His creation. Isaiah 43:10 (NASB) says, “Before Me there was no God formed, And there will be none after Me.”
- Baptism for the Dead: Mormons practice baptism for the dead. The Bible does not teach this practice and emphasises individual faith in Christ for salvation. Hebrews 9:27 (NASB) says, “And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment.”
- Continuous Revelation: Mormons believe in ongoing revelation that can add to or change biblical teachings. The Bible teaches that God’s revelation in the Bible is complete. Jude 1:3 (NASB) says, “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.”
Conclusion
Understanding these differences is crucial. The Jesus and gospel of the LDS church do not align with the Jesus and gospel revealed in the Bible. Recognising this helps us share the true gospel with love and clarity, ensuring that we point people to the true salvation found only in Jesus Christ, as revealed in the Bible. Let us hold fast to the truth of God’s Word and pray for those who are led astray by false teachings.
