Theological Differences Between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Mainstream Christianity

It is important to recognize that the term Mainstream Christianity is somewhat nebulous, as Christian beliefs and practices vary widely across different denominations and individuals. However, the core principles and practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church or Mormons) do indeed present some significant theological differences compared to those commonly found in mainstream Christianity.

Christological and Soteriological Differences

One major theological difference revolves around the understanding of Christ's atonement. Mainstream Christianity commonly teaches that Christ's death on the cross was a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, and that salvation is received through faith rather than works. This perspective often leads to a more passive approach to repentance and personal holiness.

While The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not outright deny this theology, they do not emphasize it through the sacraments of bread and wine or the use of the sign of the cross. Instead, they encourage members to take responsibility for living a life of goodness, love, and sexual chastity. This emphasis on personal righteousness and active repentance is a distinguishing feature that aligns more with the idea of antinomian salvation in some mainstream Christian traditions.

Trinitarian Differences

Mainstream Christianity, particularly in the Protestant and Catholic traditions, holds a trinitarian doctrine, which posits that God exists in three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each equally eternal and coeternal, yet one God. However, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are separate beings and not co-eternal. This is a significant theological divergence from the widely accepted Trinitarian understanding in mainstream Christianity.

Rewarding Joseph Smith with direct revelation, the Book of Mormon reveals God the Father and Jesus Christ as separate individuals. Joseph Smith himself reported seeing God the Father and Jesus Christ as distinct beings. This belief challenges the orthodox Christian doctrine that God is both three persons and one being, reinforcing a concept more closely aligned with what the LDS Church calls the Godhead—an eternal family relationship rather than a trinity.

Other Theological Discrepancies

Other theological differences between the LDS Church and mainstream Christianity include the concept of polytheism. The LDS Church is unequivocal in its monotheistic stance, teaching that there is only one God and his only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Ghost being a distinct third person of the Godhead. This belief stands in stark contrast to polytheism, which is a belief in multiple gods.

Furthermore, the LDS teachings about the nature of God and humanity emphasize a more familial relationship between God and humans. They believe that humans can achieve godhood and dwell in the presence of God through their faith, repentance, and obedience to commandments. This belief in the potential for humans to become like God is a significant departure from the more static and hierarchical views often found in mainstream Christianity.

It is important to note, however, that while these theological differences exist, there are also shared values and spiritual beliefs. Many individuals within both communities strive to follow Christ's teachings and seek to understand and live out their faith in meaningful ways. Many Christians, including members of the LDS Church, hold each other in high regard and recognize the importance of ethical and moral living, charity, and service to others.

In conclusion, the fundamental differences between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and mainstream Christianity lie in Christ's atonement, the nature of the Godhead, and the potential for humans to become like God. These differences reflect distinctive theological perspectives and practices that provide unique paths to spiritual fulfillment and righteousness for their adherents.