Digital Guide
Are Mormons Christian?
Comparing the Differences between Mormonism and Biblical Christianity
People often ask, "Are Mormons Christian?" But, the better question is:
“Is Mormonism a Christian religion?”
This is more appropriate because it focuses on the teachings of the Mormon Church rather than on the beliefs of an individual Mormon. It also allows us to evaluate Mormonism on the basis of its official doctrine.
The Mormon or LDS Church strenuously claims to be Christian:
“Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unequivocally affirm themselves to be Christians”
GOSPEL TOPICS ESSAYS, ARE MORMONS CHRISTIAN?
This sentiment is echoed by members and missionaries alike.
Claiming to be Christian, however, doesn’t automatically make Mormonism a Christian religion. Nor does including Jesus’ name in their church name. Many other people and churches make this claim or adopt Christian terminology, but are not recognized as Christian by traditional Christian churches. One example would be the Christian Identity Movement affiliated with white supremacy.
So, What is a Christian?
The dictionary defines a Christian as “one who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ.” In keeping with this commonly held definition, the key to determining whether Mormonism is Christian or not is ascertaining if its teachings are the ones Jesus taught.
So, does the Mormon church teach what Jesus taught? One of the bedrock beliefs of Christianity is that the Bible accurately conveys Jesus’ teachings. It is the standard by which all beliefs need to be evaluated.
Let’s take a look at some of the teachings of the Bible and compare them with LDS doctrine.