One of the most significant sources of confusion when speaking with LDS missionaries is the way familiar words—like grace, salvation, faith, and eternal life—can carry very different meanings in Mormonism than they do in biblical Christianity.

The conversation may sound like you’re agreeing, but often, you’re simply using the same words with different definitions. That’s why it’s so important to slow down and pay attention to the language being used. Don’t assume that they define key spiritual terms the same way you do—or even the same way other LDS missionaries might.

It’s a great idea to ask thoughtful questions like:

• “What does grace mean to you?”

• “How would you define salvation?”

• “When you say ‘eternal life,’ what do you mean by that?”

• “What does it mean to be forgiven?”

As you ask, really listen. Take notes on what your missionaries say—not what you think they mean, and not what you’ve read elsewhere about Mormonism. Write down their specific explanations. This not only helps you understand where they’re coming from but also shows them you’re taking the conversation seriously and respectfully.

Later, you can go back and compare their definitions with what the Bible says. When they return for your next conversation, you can revisit one of those terms and say something like:

“Last time you said grace means something God gives us to help us become worthy. That surprised me, because I’ve always understood grace as something God gives to the unworthy. Can we talk about that more?”

The goal isn’t to “win” a debate—it’s to open up space for the gospel to do its work. By gently exposing the differences, you invite them to consider whether the message they’ve been taught aligns with the good news of Jesus.

Helps

The LDS definition is often worded in such a way that, at first glance, it sounds decent. Sometimes, you need somebody else to point out the vital difference between the two definitions.

We also have a “Dictionary of Mormonese” you may request or access online. It will help you tremendously.

An official LDS Church manual, True to the Faith, is also helpful. It contains brief articles on key terms arranged in alphabetical order. It’s a good resource for understanding the LDS definition of many key terms. It can be found on churchofjesuschrist.org.