Mormonism, also known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), is a religious movement that claims to be a restoration of true Christianity. However, from a biblical standpoint, there are significant theological differences between Mormonism and mainstream Christianity. This essay aims to explore some of the key biblical refutations of Mormonism, highlighting areas where the teachings of the LDS Church diverge from orthodox Christian beliefs.
The Nature of God
One of the fundamental differences between Christianity and Mormonism lies in their respective understandings of the nature of God. Christianity, rooted in the Bible, proclaims the doctrine of one God existing eternally as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In contrast, Mormonism teaches that God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are three separate gods. However, the Bible consistently affirms the unity of God and warns against the worship of multiple gods (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10; 44:6).
The Deity of Jesus Christ
Christianity emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ, proclaiming Him as the eternal Son of God, fully God and fully human (John 1:1,14; Colossians 2:9). In contrast, Mormonism teaches that Jesus is the literal spirit child of God the Father and a heavenly mother and is considered the elder brother of all humans. However, the Bible unequivocally declares Jesus as God in the flesh (John 10:30; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 1:8), and no passage supports the notion of preexistent human spirits.
Salvation by Grace Alone
Christianity emphasizes that salvation is a gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). In contrast, Mormonism teaches a form of salvation by works, where personal effort, including obedience to commandments and participation in Mormon rituals, plays a significant role in attaining salvation. However, the Bible makes it clear that salvation cannot be earned through human effort but is solely dependent on God's grace (Romans 3:20,28; Galatians 2:16).
Scripture and Revelation
The Bible serves as the authoritative and sufficient Word of God in Christianity. However, Mormonism adds additional scriptures, namely the Book of Mormon, the Book of Nephi, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, which are considered equal in authority to the Bible. This contradicts the biblical warnings against adding or subtracting from God's Word (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). Moreover, the Book of Mormon contains historical and archaeological inaccuracies, further undermining its credibility.
Marriage and Eternal Life
Mormonism teaches that eternal life involves the practice of celestial marriage and the attainment of godhood in the afterlife. However, Jesus explicitly states that there is no marriage in the resurrection (Matthew 22:30), and the concept of humans becoming gods contradicts the biblical teaching on the uniqueness and supremacy of God (Isaiah 43:10; 44:6).
Inconsistencies with Biblical Teachings
The Book of Nephi introduces doctrinal concepts that contradict orthodox Christian beliefs. For example, it presents teachings such as the existence of multiple gods, the possibility of human deification, and the necessity of additional ordinances for salvation. These ideas deviate from the biblical teachings of monotheism (Deuteronomy 6:4), the uniqueness and supremacy of God (Isaiah 43:10), and salvation by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Doctrinal Inconsistencies and Lack of Unity
The Book of Nephi, along with other LDS scriptures, introduces teachings that are inconsistent with each other and biblical teachings. This lack of theological harmony raises concerns about the reliability and coherence of the book's teachings. In contrast, the Bible presents a consistent and unified message throughout its various books and authors, reinforcing its credibility as the inspired Word of God.
Conclusion:
While Mormonism claims to be a restoration of true Christianity, a careful examination of its teachings in light of the Bible reveals significant theological deviations. The nature of God, the deity of Jesus Christ, the means of salvation, the role of scripture, and the concept of eternal life differ from orthodox Christian beliefs. It is essential for Christians to understand these differences and rely on the authority of the Bible as the ultimate guide for discerning truth.