"The cults capitalize on the almost total inability of the average Christian to understand the subtle art of redefinition in the realm of biblical theology." (Walter Martin, Kingdom of the Cults, Revised, Updated, and Expanded Anniversary Edition, general editor Hank Hanegraaff, 1997, p.29) Put another way, "The Christian must realize that for every biblical or doctrinal term he mentions, a redefinition light flashes on in the mind of the cultist, and a lightning-fast redefinition is accomplished." (Ibid. p. 31) We must know what Mormons mean when they use terms like salvation, God, grace, Jesus Christ, etc. We must also know how these differ from the historical and Biblical definitions of such terms. Below is an alphabetically arranged list of terms and their appropriate definitions. It is our hope that by studying these you will be better equipped to witness to your Mormon neighbors.
Many of these definitions are cited from, or paraphrased from Questions To Ask Your Mormon Friend (pp. 143-186), by Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson of the Mormon Research Ministry. Our list is inspired by their work and we recommend this book to all that are interested.
Mormon: One of the priesthoods in Mormonism. Considered the lesser of the two priesthoods (Priesthood and Church Government, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p. 106), the Aaronic Priesthood holds "the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins" (Doctrine and Covenants 13:1).
Christian: The Aaronic Priesthood was reserved only for Aaron and his descendants (Numbers 3:6-12). Even Jesus could not hold this priesthood because He was of the tribe of Judah (Hebrew 7:14), and not the tribe of Levi as Aaron was (Numbers 3:6).
Mormon: Also known in the pre-existence as the archangel Michael or the Ancient of Days (Doctrine and Covenants 27:11; 138:38). According to Joseph Smith, Adam took part in creating Earth and occupies a position of authority next to Jesus Christ (Joseph F. Smith, Teaching of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 158).
Christian: The first human created by God, Adam was made of the dust of the ground and God breathed life into him(Genesis 2:7). Adam never has been an angel or existed prior to his creation in the Garden of Eden.
Mormon: The age at which a person becomes accountable before God for his acts. The LDS church teaches that this occurs at the age of eight (Doctrine and Covenants 68:27). The Book of Mormon teaches "little children are whole, for they are not capable of committing sin; wherefore the curse of Adam is taken from them in me" (Moroni 8:8).
Christian: Contrary to the LDS teaching, the Bible declares that we are sinners from conception (Psalm 51:5) and that nobody is righteous (Romans 3:10). However, the Bible does hint at an age of accountability. In 2nd Samuel 12:23 David declares that he will go to his son who was a child at death. The Bible does not give a specific age for when accountability takes place. This may be because of the dramatic differences between the speed at which one becomes aware of the consequences of their own actions.
Angel:
Mormon: Joseph Smith taught that angels "are resurrected personages, having bodies of flesh and bones." In order to tell if an angel is of God one should offer to shake hands. "If he be an angel he will do so, and you will feel his hand" (Doctrine and Covenants 129:1, 4-5).
Christian: Messengers of God who are spirits (Psalm 104:4). Spirits do no have flesh and bone (Luke 24:39).
Mormon: Most Latter-day Saints consider anyone who tries to evangelize Mormons, or speaks out against LDS doctrine to be "anti-Mormon." Consequently, any literature revealing the errors or unbiblical doctrines taught in Mormonism is deemed "anti-Mormon."
Christian: Sadly, there are those who are Christian and are genuinely "anti-Mormon." Their problem is with the actual Mormon rather than the doctrines they believe. As the late Walter Martin stated, "We must not, however, confuse the theology with the person as is too often the case, for while hostility toward the former is scriptural, it is never so with the latter" (Walter Martin, Kingdom of the Cults, Revised, Updated, and Expanded Anniversary Edition, general editor Hank Hanegraaff, 1997, p.224).
Apostasy, Total:
Mormon: According to Mormonism true Christianity ceased to exist after the death of Christ's apostles (Gospel Principles, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p.105). The absence of God's church on Earth required a restoration. The LDS church claims to be this restored church.
Christian: A total apostasy is never mentioned in the Bible. Verses like 1 Timothy 4:1; Matthew 24:11; and 2 Peter 2:1-3 show that some will depart from the faith, not all. In fact, Jesus promise His church would not fall to the powers of hell (Matthew 16:18).
Apostate:
Mormon: An ex-member of the Mormon church.
Christian: Any professing Christian who abandons the faith (Hebrews 6:4-6).
Apostle:
Mormon: Any member of the Quorum of the Twelve. These twelve men are said to be modern day apostles in the tradition of the twelve chosen by Jesus.
Christian: One of a number of men sent forth by direct command from the Lord or the Holy Spirit (Matthew 10:1-4; Acts 1:26). The number is not limited to twelve. Barnabas (Acts 14:14) and James the brother of Jesus (Galatians 1:19) are listed as apostles along with the original eleven and Paul. One of the requirements to be an apostle was to be an eyewitness to the resurrected Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1).
Mormon: "Christ's atonement makes it possible to be saved from sin if we do our part" (Gospel Principles, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p.69 1988 ed. italics original).
Christian: Christ's sacrifice for our sins by His death on the cross (Philippians 2:8; Colossians 1:20; 1 John 2:1-2). Salvation from our sins comes from faith in the atonement, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Mormon: Mormonism teaches that baptism by immersion is needed for forgiveness of our sins. Accordions to LDS doctrine one cannot receive the Holy Ghost until they are baptized. One cannot be exalted to godhood without being baptized (Gospel Principles, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,p.124-128, 1988 ed.).
Christian: The first act of obedience made once one professes faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ. It is not required to receive the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:36-37; 10:47-48).
Mormon: This practice is just what it says. Living members of the LDS church are baptized vicariously for those who have died. According to Mormonism, this gives the dead a chance to be saved and accept the Mormon gospel after death (Doctrine and Covenants 128: 138:32-33 ).
Christian: This practice is mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:29. Paul excludes himself from this practice using the word they rather than we. This is also the only verse in the Bible to mention this practice. The Bible is clear that "it is appointed unto man once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrew 9:27). Ironically the Book of Mormon teaches the same thing (Alma 34:34-35).
Mormon: The "word of God as far as it is translated correctly" (Pearl of Great Price, Article of Faith no. 8). According to the Book of Mormon "many plain and precious things" have been taken away from the Bible (1 Nephi 13:26-29). Because of this the Bible is not completely trustworthy. The King James Version is the only translation accepted by the LDS church.
Christian: God's only revealed written word. Considered God breathed (2 Timothy 3:16), indestructible (Matthew 5:17-18), infallible (John 10:35), and factually inerrant (John 17:17) the Bible is God's perfect revelation to imperfect man. All one needs to know to obtain salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ is in God's word (Luke 16:31).
Mormon: The leader of a Mormon ward. Bishops are not paid for their service. A Bishop's duties are similar to that of a Christian Pastor.
Christian: Also known as overseers (Acts 20:28), bishops are elder leaders of a Christian body. Paul lists the requirements of a bishop in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.
This term is exclusive to Mormonism. Each Mormon ward has a bishopric that leads the ward. The bishopric consists of the ward bishop and his two counselors. All the members of the bishopric hold the Melchizedek priesthood.
One of the standard works of the Mormon Church. The book details the story of a group of Jews that sailed to the American continent around 600 B.C. The group separated into two peoples, the Nephites and the Lamanites. The Lamanites are cursed with dark skin by God and are taught to be related to modern day Native Americans. The two peoples have many wars and the Lamanites eventually destroy the Nephites. The book alleges that Jesus visited the American continent after His crucifixion. The narrative also includes the story of a group of people known as the Jaradites whom God spared from having their language confused at the Tower of Babel. The LDS church claims that the Book of Mormon is "the most correct of any book on earth" (Joseph F. Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 194).
Mormon congregations that are not large enough or stable enough to form wards. These are divided into two categories: independent branches, which comprise larger and more powerful branches, and dependant branches, usually smaller in size and "less endowed" with local leadership. Several branches comprise a district.
Mormonism: Joseph Smith claimed that when studying ancient records (such as the Book of Mormon), your "bosom shall burn" to verify it's divine authenticity. This burning in the bosom is allegedly proof of the validity of the Mormon Church (Doctrine and Covenants 9:8-9).
Christian: The Bible teaches nothing about a burning in the bosom. Rather than rely on a subjective feeling, the Bible exhorts us to test all things and hold on to that which is true (1 Thessalonians 5:21). We are to test things by comparing them to the Bible as the Bereans did (Acts 17:11). We are never to trust our feelings alone to determine truth (Proverbs 28:26; Jeremiah 17:9).
Celestial Kingdom:
The highest of the three levels of heaven in Mormonism. Within the Celestial Kingdom there are three other levels (Doctrine and Covenants 131:1). Those who reach the highest level within the Celestial Kingdom become gods (Doctrine and Covenants 76:58). Only by keeping all the laws of the Mormon gospel can one reach the Celestial Kingdom (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.116).
Mormon: A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. "Mormons are true Christians; their worship is the pure unadulterated Christianity authored by Christ and accepted by Peter, James and John and all the ancient saints" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.513).
Christian: A true follower of Jesus Christ (John 6:47; Romans 10:9-10).
Church, The:
Mormon: The Mormon Church, officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. According to Mormonism, all other churches are in a state of apostasy. Doctrine and Covenants 1:30 describes the Mormon Church as "the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth." Mormon Apostle Orson Pratt taught that "...all other churches are entirely destitute of all authority from God; and any person who receives Baptism, or the Lord's supper from their hands will highly offend God; for he looks upon them as the most corrupt of all people" (Orson Pratt, The Seer, p.255). Because of this, Mormonism teaches membership in this church is the only way to be truly saved. Mormon Apostle Mark E. Peterson stated, "Salvation is in the [Mormon] church and of the [Mormon] church, and is obtained only through the church" (Deseret News, Church Section, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, April 14, 1973, p.14, inserts added).
Christian: Compose of individuals who have recognized their sinfulness and have placed their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior. It is not denominational buildings or organizations that comprise the Church but rather God's people. Acts 4:12 reads, "for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." That name is Jesus Christ, not the Mormon Church. The apostle Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 12:27 that we, as individual believers in Christ, are the Body of Christ. It states, "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular."
Creation:
Mormon: The God of Mormonism did not create the universe ex nihilo, or out of nothing. Rather he organized the universe out of pre-existing material called element. This element is taught to be eternal (Doctrine and Covenants 93:33). By organizing element the Mormon God formed the universe (Abraham 4:1). LDS apostle John Widtsoe taught that "God, the supreme Power, cannot conceivably originate matter; he can only organize matter. Neither can he destroy matter; he can only disorganize it.... The doctrine that God made the earth or man from nothing becomes, therefore, an absurdity" (Widtsoe, A Rational Theology, p.12).
Christian: God created the universe out of nothing, or ex nihilo. Genesis chapter one repeatedly shows that God spoke and the universe leapt into existence (Genesis 1:3, 9, 11, 14-15, 24). The God of the Bible is not limited in any way. With Him all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).
The name of the hill in which the golden plates that the Book of Mormon were written on were hidden (Mormon 6:6). According to Joseph Smith the Hill Cumorah was "convenient to the village of Manchester, Ontario County, New York" (Joseph Smith -History 1:50-54). An angel named Moroni took Joseph to this hill and the plates. Some LDS scholars argue that the Hill is located in Central America.
Deacon:
Mormon: Chosen from among 12 to 14-year old boys. His job is to "watch over the Church and to be a standing minister to the church" (Priesthood and Church Government, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, pp.164-165).
Christian: Men chosen as subordinate officers in the church. Their qualifications include not being greedy, being sound in the faith, and able to rule their children and houses well. They are also to be the husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:8- 12).
"The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of [allegedly] divine revelations... Most of the revelations in this compilation were received through Joseph Smith, Jun." (Doctrine and Covenants, Explanatory Introduction, insert added)
The lowest ordained office of the Mormon Melchizedek Priesthood (Priesthood and Church Government, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p.111). By this office Mormons feel they have authority to teach, expound, exhort, baptize and watch over the church, etc. Also known as a standing home minister.
Elder Brother:
Jesus Christ is commonly referred to as Elder Brother in the Mormon Church. This is because Jesus is taught to be the first born to Heavenly Father and Heavenly Mother. All other humans are younger spirit children of these heavenly parents, thus Jesus is the Elder Brother to the human race.
Mormon: God the Father. Prior to being God He was a mortal man. "By obedience to eternal gospel principals, he progressed from one stage of life to another until he attained the state we call exaltation or godhood" (Achieving a Celestial Marriage, Published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p.132).
Christian: One of the many names of God. The God of the Bible is not and never was a man (Numbers 23:19; Hosea 11:9).
Eternal Progression:
This is the LDS doctrine that man can progress from a pre-existent spirit to mortality and ultimately godhood. Brigham Young taught "there never was a time when there were not Gods and worlds, and when men were not passing through the same ordeals that we are now passing through. That course has been from all eternity, and it is and will be to all eternity" (Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, 7:333-334).
Mormon: One of Adam's plural wives. When Adam came into the Garden of Eden, he "brought Eve, one of his wives with him" (Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses 1:50).
Christian: The only wife of Adam, made by God as a "help meet for him" (Genesis 2:18).
Mormon: Adam and Eve's transgression, which is considered a positive act. The Book of Mormon teaches that Adam and Eve could not have children before the fall (2 Nepi 2:23). Thus, "Adam fell that men might be" (2 Nephi 2:25). This choice is not considered a sin. "This was a transgression of the law, but not a sin in the strict sense, for it was something that Adam and Eve had to do!" (Joseph F. Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 1:115)
Christian: The direct disobedience to God's command not to eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:17). This act was a sin and caused both sin and death to enter the world (Romans 5:12). Sin is transgression of the law of God (1 John 3:4).
Mormon: Anyone claiming to be a prophet who does not belong to the Mormon Church. "In this day and age true prophets will be members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.608).
Christian: Deuteronomy 18:20-22 gives two characteristics to look for in false prophets: (1) An inaccurate view of God or the introduction of other gods. (2) Inaccurate predictions concerning future events. Joseph Smith's prophetical statements show he met both qualifications of a false prophet.
Mormon: Once located in the central part of the United States. "The early brethren of this dispensation taught that the Garden of Eden was located in what is known to us as the land of Zion, an area for which Jackson County, Missouri is the center place" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 20).
Christian: The perfect home of Adam and Eve. Many believe that the Garden was located in the east most end of the Fertile Crescent near the Persian Gulf in modern day Iraq.
Sacred underwear worn by faithful, temple worthy Mormons. The garments are said to "be a shield and a protection to you against the power of the destroyer until you have finished your work here on earth." The garments bare the marks of the compass, level and square of Freemasonry.
Genealogy:
Mormon: Researching one's family history in order to perform baptism for the dead.
Christian: Genealogical work for religious reasons is condemned in the Bible (1 Timothy 1:4).
The plates "giving an account of the former inhabitants of this [American] continent, and the source from whence they sprang." These plates also contained "the fullness of the everlasting Gospel" (Joseph Smith-History 1:34). The language on these plates was reformed Egyptian (Mormon 9:32). Joseph Smith claimed that the Book of Mormon is a translation of these golden plates. After being translated the plates were taken into heaven.
Gospel:
Mormon: "The gospel of Jesus Christ is the plan of salvation. It embraces all of the laws, principles, doctrines, rites, ordinances, acts, powers, authorities, and keys necessary to save and exalt men in the highest heaven hereafter" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 331).
Christian: "Moreover, brethren, I declare into you the gospel which I preached unto you…how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
Mormon: Depending on the works one does in life there are three different "heavens" one can reach.
Christian: The dwelling place of God, the angels and those who accept the true Jesus as Savior. This is one of two eternal destinations in the Bible, Hell being the second.
The wife of "Heavenly Father" (Elohim) in Mormonism. According to some early LDS leaders, Heavenly Mother is one of many wives to a polygamist Heavenly Father (Orson Pratt, The Seer, p. 172). Mormon apostle Bruce McConkie said that the teaching of a Heavenly Mother is an "unspoken truth" not mentioned in Mormon scriptures (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.516, Mother in Heaven). All humans are literally the sons and daughters of these heavenly parents, Jesus being the first born (Doctrine and Covenants 93:21). "An exalted and glorified Man of Holiness (Moses 6:57) could not be a Father unless a Woman of like glory, perfection, and holiness was associated with him as a Mother. The begetting of children makes a man a father and a woman a mother whether we are dealing with man in his mortal or immortal state" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.516, Mother in Heaven).
Hell:
Mormon: Commonly called "Outer Darkness." This is the eternal state of existence for apostate Mormons, demons and the extremely wicked (Murderers, rapists, etc.).
Christian: Complete separation from God for those who reject Christ (Matthew 7:21-23; John 3:36; 6:28-29). Those whose name is not in the book of life will be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15).
Mormon. There are several conflicting ideas in Mormonism as to who the Holy Ghost is. Mormon apostle John Widtsoe said that the Holy Ghost "is the third member of the Godhead and is a personage, distinct from the Holy Spirit. As a personage, the Holy Ghost cannot any more than the Father and Son be everywhere present in person" (Widtsoe, Evidences and Reconciliations, pp. 76-77). According to Widtsoe the Holy Spirit is the "agent, means, or influence" by which the will of the Godhead is transmitted through space (Ibid, p.76). In stark contradiction, the LDS Bible Dictionary claims that the Holy Ghost is another name of the Holy Spirit. Herber C. Kimball, a former LDS apostle said, "The Holy Ghost is a man" (Journal of Discourses, 5:179). As a generality, the Holy Ghost is considered the third god in the Mormon Godhead. Whether the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit are the same may vary form one LDS member to another.
Christian: The Holy Ghost is the third person of the Trinity, and is synonymous with the Holy Spirit. The Greek word pneuma is translated as spirit and ghost in the King James Version of the Bible.
A term never clearly defined by the LDS Church. This word can refer to either the pre-existent spirit offspring of God or individual eternal entities that existed before the pre-existence (Abraham 3:21-22). According to Joseph Smith "[i]ntelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made [by God], neither indeed can be" (Doctrine and Covenants 93:29, insert added).
Mormon: The name of the pre-incarnate Jesus, the literal son of Elohim. "[In] the mortal state [he] was known as Jesus Christ, and in the antemortal state [he is known] as Jehovah" (James Talmage, Articles of Faith, pp.465-466). The Mormon temple endowment ceremony teaches that Jehovah and Michael (who is the pre-incarnate Adam) organized the world.
Christian: A hybrid word taken from the Tetragrammaton YHWH. Vowels were added to the Tetragrammaton to form the word Yahweh, which is another name for God. The King James Version of the Bible translates Jehovah as LORD and Elohim as God. Verses like Deuteronomy 6:4 say that the "LORD (Jehovah) your God (Elohim) is one LORD (Jehovah)" (Inserts added). This is done repeatedly when referring to the one true God (Psalm 100:3; Jeremiah 10:10).
Mormon: One of three Gods in the Mormon Godhead (Joseph F. Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p.370). The spirit brother of Lucifer (Spencer Kimball, Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.32-33). The literal offspring of "Heavenly Father" and "Heavenly Mother" (Doctrine and Covenants 93:21). He became a God in the pre-existent state without becoming mortal (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.129,323). Known in the pre-existence as Jehovah.
Christian: The second person of the Trinity. God manifest in the flesh (Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16). Creator of all things, including Lucifer (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrew 1:1-2). Jesus stands in equal authority with the Father since He is God (Philippians 2:6).
Mormon: First President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a prophet of God. Joseph claimed that God told him all churches are wrong (Joseph Smith-History 1:19). An angel allegedly appeared to him and told him where to find the Book of Mormon (Ibid. 1:30-35). According to Joseph Smith, "God made Aaron to be the mouthpiece for the children of Israel, and He will make me to be god to you in His stead, and the Elders to be mouth for me; and if you don't like it, you must lump it" (History of the Church, 6:319-320).
Christian: Founder of the LDS Church and a false prophet. Joseph Smith taught that God the Father is an exalted man (Joseph F. Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p.345), African Americans are cursed by God (History of the Church, 5:217-218), and that polygamy is ordained by God (Doctrine and Covenants section 132). Such teachings are strictly unbiblical.
Joseph Smith Translation:
Contrary to the term, the Joseph Smith Translation (or JST) is not a translation. No manuscripts were used to make this version of the Bible. Rather, Smith claimed he was "inspired" to make changes to the King James Version of the Bible (Doctrine and Covenants 73:4, 124:89). According to Smith, God told him to build a house for the express purpose of this translation (Doctrine and Covenants 94:10). Some LDS members have argued that the JST was never completed. However, this contradicts Smith's own words which say he was to work on the translation "until it be finished" (Doctrine and Covenants 73:4). If the JST was not finished, then this "revelation" was false.
"[T]he first creation nearest to the celestial, or the residence of God.... One day in Kolob is equal to a thousand years according to the measurement of this earth." (Pearl of Great Price, Book of Abraham, Facsimile no.2, Fig.1). Kolob is mentioned as a star by some LDS leaders (Joseph F. Smith, Man: His Origin and Destiny, p.537), and as a planet by others (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 2d ed., p. 428).
Lamanites:
The followers and descendants of Laman, who is mentioned in the Book of Mormon. Lamanites were cursed with " a skin of blackness" for their unbelief in the ways of the light skinned Nephites (Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi 12:23; 2 Nephi 5:21-23). The Lamanites killed all of the Nephites at the Hill Cumorah. Mormonism claims that Native-Americans are descendants of Lamanites.
Mormon: One of the literal sons of Elohim (Heavenly Father) and Heavenly Mother and spirit brother of Jesus Christ. "Long before you were born a program was developed by your creators.... The principal personalities in this great drama were a Father Elohim, perfect in wisdom, judgment and person, and two sons, Lucifer and Jehovah (Jesus)." (Spencer Kimball, Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.32-33, insert added) Lucifer's plan to save humanity was rejected, resulting in his rebellion against Elohim (Doctrine and Covenants 29:36; Abraham 3:27-28).
Christian: A fallen angel. Specifically a cherub (Ezekiel 28:14). His rebellion against God resulted in being cast out of heaven to earth (Isaiah 14:12; Ezekiel 28:17; Luke 10:18). As an angel Lucifer is a created being, and all things are created by Jesus Christ (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:1-2).
Issued in 1890, this document essentially ended polygamy in the early LDS church. The manifesto does not declare polygamy to be morally or biblically wrong. Wilford Woodruff wrote in the manifesto that his "advise to the Latter-day Saints is to refrain from contracting any marriage forbidden by the law of the land" (Doctrine and Covenants - Declaration 1). Wolford Woodruff, along with several other LDS leaders kept their plural wives despite this revelation from "the Lord" (See Abraham H. Cannon, Daily Journal of Abraham H. Cannon, October 7, 1890 and Frank J. Cannon, Under the Prophet in Utah, pp. 268-290, as cited in Mormonism-Shadow or Reality? by Jerald and Sandra Tanner, p. 235).
Mormon: "The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church in all ages of the world, to administer in spiritual things" (Doctrine and Covenants 107:8). Joseph Smith claimed that John the Baptist, along with the apostles John, James and Peter, appeared to him and Oliver Cowdery to bestow this priesthood (Joseph Smith-History 1:72). It is named after Melchizedeck, king of Salem (Genesis 14:18).
Christian: The Bible mentions a priest named Melchizedek, not a Melchizedek priesthood (Genesis 14:18). Jesus is a priest forever after "the order of Melchizedeck" (Hebrew 5:6). Nowhere does the Bible teach that this priesthood is transferable. In fact, it teaches it is not transferable (Hebrews 7:24).
The followers and descendants of Nephi, son of Lehi, mentioned in the Book of Mormon. The light skinned Nephites were destroyed by the dark skinned Lamanites at the Hill Cumorah.
Mormon: To be built "in this land" (3 Nephi: 20:22), specifically in Jackson County, Missouri. The building of the New Jerusalem was to begin at the temple lot in Independence, Missouri (Doctrine and Covenants 57:3; 84:1-4). When this prophecy failed, Joseph Smith claimed it was due to God's enemies (Doctrine and Covenants 124:51).
Christian: The city of God for those who overcome the trials of life (Revelation 3:12). John described this city "coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband" (Revelation 21:2). This happens after the old heaven and earth have passed away (Revelation 21:1).
One of the standard works of the LDS Church. The Pearl of Great Price consists of the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, Joseph Smith's version of Matthew 23:39 and chapter 24, extracts from History of the Church volume 1 chapters 1-5 and the LDS Articles of Faith.
Mormon: Also known as plural marriage or celestial marriage in the early Mormon Church. Doctrine and Covenants section 132 says that if a man enters into polygamy "Then shall they be gods" (Doctrine and Covenants 132:20). This idea was taught by Brigham Young when he said, "The only men who become gods, even the sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy" (Journal of Discourses 11:269). The modern LDS church excommunicates those who practice polygamy.
Christian: Polygamy is tolerated by God, not condoned. 1 Corinthians 7:2 is clear that "every man [is to] have his own wife" not wives (insert added). God punished David for practicing polygamy (2 Samuel 12:10). Nowhere does the Bible teach that polygamy is required for salvation.
Mormon: "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that every person experiences a series of "births." All were born as spirit children of God in a pre-mortal life" (Daniel H. Ludlow, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, volume 1, Agency). In order to progress to godhood "Our spirits needed to be clothed with physical bodies" (Gospel Principles, p.13-14, published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). After receiving bodies we spend a probationary period here on earth to prove our worthiness.
Christian: The Bible does not teach that man existed before being created in the womb. Indeed, our spirits are formed in the womb (Zechariah 12:1).
Mormon: Also known as the President of the Mormon Church. The Prophet is the highest office of the Mormon Church. The Prophet is taught to be the seer and revelator to the LDS people (Doctrine and Covenants 21:1; 107:92; 124:94). Only one Prophet is appointed at a time (Doctrine and Covenants 43:3).
Christian: God's mouthpiece to His people (Exodus 4:16; Numbers 12:6; Deuteronomy 18:18). All prophets prophesied until John the Baptist (Matthew 11:13). In these last days God does not speak to us through prophets but through His son Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1-2).
Mormon: "Salvation in its true and full meaning is synonymous with exaltation or eternal life and consists in gaining an inheritance in the highest of the three heavens within the celestial kingdom.... Salvation in the celestial kingdom of God, however, is not salvation by grace alone. Rather, it is salvation by grace coupled with obedience to the laws and ordinances of the [Mormon] gospel" (Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 670-67, insert added).
Christian: Salvation is obtained by faith in Christ alone (John 3:36; 6:28-29,47). This salvation is life eternal with Christ in the kingdom of God. It is made possible only by the grace of God, and not the works of men, so that nobody can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Mormon: The Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price are considered scripture in the LDS Church. These are also known as the standard works of the Mormon Church. "In addition to these four books, the inspired words of our living prophets becomes scripture to us" (Gospel Principles, pp. 49, 51, published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). It should be noted that some members of the LDS church only look to the standard works for church doctrine. Some LDS leaders have taught that anything outside the standard works should be considered "speculation, man's own personal opinion" (Harold B. Lee, Improvement Era, January 1969, p.13, published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).
Christian: Protestant Christianity has maintained that the only written authority for life and faith is the Bible, a collection of sixty-six books written over a period from about 1500 B.C. to the end of the first century A.D. All scripture is literally God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The word of God is indestructible (Matthew 5:17-18), infallible (John 10:35), historic (Matthew 12:40; 24:37), centers on Jesus Christ (Luke 24:27; John 5:39) and is completely sufficient for matters of faith and life (Luke 16:31).
This is an ordinance performed in Mormon temples. It binds husbands and wives as well as their children into a family that will last through eternity. It can also be done by proxy on behalf of the dead.
Seventy:
A member of the First Quorum of the Seventy or the Second Quorum (organized in 1989). The seventies are under directions of the Quorum of the twelve apostles.
Mormon: An act of transgression against revealed law. It is taught that man by nature is a lover of truth and righteousness. Brigham Young states, "It is, however universally received by professors of religion as a Scriptural doctrine that man is naturally opposed to God. This is not so" (Journal of Discourses 9:305). Third Mormon President John Taylor said, "In fact, as the President [Young] stated here not long ago, it is not natural for men to be evil" (Journal of Discourses 10:50, insert added). Joseph F. Smith taught that a transgression of God's law is not always a sin (Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 1:115).
Christian: "[S]in is the transgression of the law" of God (1 John 3:4). All men are sinful from the time of conception (Psalm 51:5). People are inherently sinful because their hearts are deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). Faith in Jesus transforms us and gives us power to overcome sin (Romans 6:14).
Stake:
A geographical grouping within the Mormon Church, which consists of wards and branches. Groups of stakes are combined to form regions and districts.
The lowest of the three heavens in Mormonism. Those in the telestial kingdom will be "deprived of the personal presence of God and the Christ, [but] shall nevertheless receive the ministration of angels and the Holy Ghost, for they are to be accounted "heirs of salvation" (B.H. Roberts, comp., Comprehensive History of the Church, 1:275). Among those in the telestial kingdom will be liars, sorcerers and adulterers (Joseph F. Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions, 2:209).
The second highest heaven in Mormonism. This heaven is reserved for those "who received a testimony of Jesus but were not sufficiently valiant in that testimony to obey all the principles and ordinances of the gospel" (Doctrine and Covenants 76: 71-80). Also, those of "the heathen nations" who "died without law," who are honorable but who do not accept the fullness of the gospel in the post earthly spirit world, are candidates for the terrestrial glory (Doctrine and Covenants 45:54; 76:72). In the hereafter, they receive the presence of the Son, but not the fullness of the Father" (Daniel H. Ludlow, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, volume 1, Degrees of Glory).
Mormon: The virgin birth of Jesus was possible because of sexual relations between Mary and Elohim (God the Father). "Jesus Christ is the Son of God in the most literal sense. The body in which He performed His mission in the flesh was sired by that same Holy Being we worship as God, our Eternal Father. Jesus was not the son of Joseph, nor was He begotten by the Holy Ghost. He is the Son of the Eternal Father!" (Ezra Taft Benson, Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p.7)
Christian: Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Ghost when Jesus was conceived (Matthew 1:18).
Ward:
A local Mormon congregation. Several wards form a stake.
Mormon: A name with several meanings. Zion can mean the Mormon people as a whole. "the Lord called his people Zion" (Moses 7:18). Joseph Smith called Jackson County, Missouri Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 58:49; 62:4). He also said Zion comprised all of North and South America (Joseph F. Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p.362).
Christian: The highest and southwest most hill in Jerusalem. Also used to describe the New Jerusalem (Revelation 14:1).
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