Why So Many Gods? - CULTS
What is a cult? The dictionary definition of a cult is "a religion regarded as unorthodox or spurious." There are many cults, but we will only discuss 3 of the more common and popular ones. The three discussed here are called Christian cults because they take the basic teachings of Christ and change them into a new religion with 'new' insight or 'new' revelation since Christ's time on earth. Most cults also require total allegiance to the belief, often with harsh penalties for leaving, such as the requirement that family members and friends excommunicate the wayward member (disown them). In the case of the more extreme cults, leaving is not an option-- attempts to leave can end in death.
Mormons
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) was founded by Joseph Smith. He claimed that God and Jesus spoke to him on numerous occasions through an angel named Moroni. Moroni told Joseph Smith about the ‘true church.’ Which he calls the Restored Church (restored to what the early Christian church should have led to). Smith was ‘inspired’ to write the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine of the Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price. These are all read along with the Bible (but the authority of Smith’s writing is taken as equal to the Bible, sometimes higher).
"But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed." 2 Peter 2:1-3 [in fact, read all of chapter 2; it describes false teachers and their attributes] As will be covered in the second part of this lesson, Joseph Smith did bring 'sudden destruction' upon himself.
“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!” Galatians 1:8
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book”. Revelation 22:18-19 (These words are in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible.)
What Mormons believe about Salvation: Jesus overcame physical death and therefore guaranteed physical resurrection (reincarnation). They believe that through the Atonement of Christ and obedience to all the ordinances and laws of the gospel, you can be saved. Meaning physical death was conquered by Christ, but spiritual death can only be conquered by your works. There is no salvation outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They believe you can live as perfect a life as Jesus- because they do not believe in original sin (a fancy term for sin passed down from Adam to all the human race).
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man…” Romans 8:1-3
“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned-“ Romans 5:12
“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” 1 Corinthians 15:22
Heaven and Hell- Mormons believe there are 3 levels of heaven: celestial, terrestrial, and telestial.
Celestial heaven is the highest level of heaven reserved for good Mormons who have been completely obedient to the gospel law. The reward is godhood and perpetual parenthood (eternal pregnancy for the women).
Terrestrial heaven is for lukewarm Mormons and good non-Mormons and those who accept Mormonism after death.
Telestial heaven is the lowest level of kingdom glory and is where the wicked and most of humanity will spend eternity. This is the Mormon hell: knowing you will never achieve the highest possible happiness.
[Heaven is described in Revelation Ch. 21 as a place where none who are wicked will abide.]
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Matt. 7:21
“For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment…” 2 Peter2:4
“Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.” Revelation 20:14
God’s origin-Mormons believe that God is the Supreme Being of the universe, but was once a human, he lived a perfect life and attained godhood. They also believe he has a physical body and that he has one or more wives in heaven now. God’s wife is called Holy Mother.
“God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." John 4:24
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me." Isaiah 43:10
Jesus- was born of man, elevated to godhood. Jesus was also once a man who became God. He was not part of God nor was he the Son of God (in the divine sense) while on earth, and he was not the result of the Holy Spirit’s overshadowing of Mary. He was the result of Mary and Joseph’s physical union. He and Satan were spirit brothers (in heaven before they were born on earth), and both sons of God.
“But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.”
2 Corinthians 2:3-4
“The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” Luke 1:35
Divinity of Man- Mormons believe that every man who is worthy, will rule on his own planet as a god. Each woman whose husband achieves godhood will dwell with him on their planet, populating the planet, eternally pregnant.
the first lie spoken to Adam & Eve in the garden: "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." Genesis 3:5
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” 1 Tim. 4:7
“You said in your heart, 'I will go up to heaven. I will raise my throne above the stars of God. And I will sit on the mount of meeting in the far north. I will go much higher than the clouds. I will make myself like the Most High.' But you will be brought down to the place of the dead, to the bottom of the grave.” Isaiah 14:13-15 [refers to Satan's sin of desiring to be like God, ie, be a god; and of course that got him booted out of heaven and insures his eventual abode in hell].
Baptism-Mormons believe that baptism is essential to obtaining eternal life.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Baptism for the dead- Since baptism is so important, Mormons believe that those ancestors who died not hearing the gospel can be ‘redeemed’ by proxy. Meaning someone who is ‘saved’ can stand in for them and be baptized. This is why the Mormons have the largest genealogical library in the world. Family genealogy is very important to them.
“Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment,…” Hebrews 9:27;
The parable of the rich man and Lazarus shows that no repentance is allowed after death (Luke 16:19-31):
"...He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'
Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.'
'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'
He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' "
Living Prophets-Besides the Bible and other extra-biblical sources listed above, the Mormons depend on the word of living prophets. The current prophet reveals new revelations whenever God speaks to him. Often this is so that the scriptures can be interpreted in such a way as to remain relevant to present day needs.
“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:20-21
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” Matt. 7:15 (see scripture of Rev. 22:18-19 listed in the first paragraph of this lesson).
"But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping." 2 Peter 2:1-3
Terms to know:
Polytheism- Mormons believe that Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit are three different gods. This is not the Christian belief in the Trinity, which says God is one being with 3 distinct revealed personalities.
“Hear oh Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Deut. 6:4;
“I and the Father are one." John 10:30
Spirit children- The belief that everyone exists in heaven as spirits before they are born on earth. They are learning things, and waiting to be born. This is why it is important to Mormons to have lots of children. They think there are many, many spirits in heaven waiting to be given bodies.
Polygamy- Practiced by John Smith and many Mormons until it was banned in 1890 by the highest ranking elder of the church (called a prophet). It is grounds for excommunication now. However, it is still practiced by many LDS, but they must be discrete. There are factions of Mormons who openly practice this, like the group in west Texas whose children were seized, called the Fundamentalist Church of LDS.
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." Ephesians 5:31
Missions- All Mormon boys are strongly encouraged to go on mission sometime between high school and college. This is for 2 years in a city and country of the LDS church’s choosing. Girls may go on an 18 mth. mission, but don’t have to. There is a negative stigma for any that return early, or do not go. It can mean the difference between getting a good Mormon girl to marry you, and ‘settling’ for a gentile girl. It also influences your standing in the church, which of course is important for achieving the benefits of celestial heaven in the afterlife. They use the James 2:18 verse to uphold their strong beliefs in working for salvation (they call it exaltation instead of salvation), which says: “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” However, this scripture means that works are proof and a manifestation of our salvation, not that our works save us.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
Celestial marriage- Any couple married in the temple is married for all eternity. These couples will get to have spirit children in the next life. If you are not married in the temple it is just ‘until death do us part.’ A woman must have her husband ‘resurrect’ her from the grave in the afterlife if they are to be eternally wed. If he does not, she will still resurrect, but not as his wife.
“When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.” Mark 12:25
Caffeine free- Official church doctrine is “no hot drinks”- coffee and tea, because they contain a high level of caffeine, and those were the only available hot drinks during the time that Joseph Smith lived. It does not, however, apply to other sources of caffeine such as hot chocolate, colas or chocolate. Some Mormons abstain from all caffeine, others just go by the letter of the law and abstain from coffee and tea.
Sacred Underwear- There are many things that the average Mormon does not know about their own church. They must be high enough in the church to have some of the more ‘sacred’ rituals revealed to them. Once a member has shown that they are worthy, they can go through the Endowment ceremony, where they do a lot of secret rituals, learn secret passwords and secret handshakes; are given sacred underwear and a secret ‘New Name.’ This underwear must be worn at all times, except when they shower or have relations with their spouse. This is one of the more embarrassing occult rituals of LDS, and many will deny it, or refuse to talk about it.
“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.” Colossians 2:8-10
[We do not need a bunch of extra rituals to be closer to God, or show our worthiness to serve Him. We need only believe, there are no secrets here on earth. However, in heaven there will be great knowledge opened unto us that we could not possibly grasp or understand here on earth: "But as it is written: “ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9]
“…To him who overcomes...I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it." Revelation 2:17
[We will receive a New Name-- but not until we get to heaven.]
Origins of Black People-
Joseph Smith was a man of his time, and as such, his 'revelations' from God reflect his racial perspective and popular racial attitudes of his day. According to the Book of Mormon, published in the late 1820's, being black was a curse. This is not shocking if you are familiar with the history of the western Christian church of that time as well. During this time, most white Christians believed that being black was a curse.***
According to Mormon doctrine, during the war in heaven (Revelation 12:7) when Michael and Satan fought, a third of the angels fought with Michael and being righteous gained white skin, and a third of the angels fought with Satan and became demons. The final third who were indecisive and didn't take sides were cursed with black skin. Since Mormons believe we are pre-existent (see above info on spirit children) before we are born on earth, this means these actions of these angels also affect skin color on earth.
In the 1970's, the LDS church was being pressured about their racist doctrine. The church was in danger of losing its non-profit tax exempt status, from the IRS. Also, many university sports teams were refusing to play in Utah (the state where the LDS church is headquartered). Thanks to a timely 'new revelation' from God in 1978 to the church's then Living Prophet, the church ended its discriminatory practices. These discriminatory practices included a prohibition of blacks from the priesthood instated by Brigham Young in 1854.
How to Witness to Mormons-
LDS is a cult like Jehovah’s Witnesses, because it uses scripture and twists it so that if you are not a mature Christian with a thorough knowledge of the word, you may be deceived into thinking they are Christians. They do believe they are Christians.
They are polytheistic- this is the main thing to address with a Mormon- that they do not believe that there is only one God.
There is no archaeological evidence for the Book of Mormon. Unlike the Bible, for which there are numerous evidences, there have been none to substantiate the validity of the Book of Mormon.
The Book of Abraham (a book written by Mormon founder John Smith) has been proven to be a fraud.
They believe the Bible has been corrupted over the years, as evidenced by the many different translations of the Bible.
***This heretical teaching on race began in 18th century American and European circles. It was promoted by Christian churches in both America and Europe. It refers to the passage in Genesis 4:10-12, when God put a 'mark' on Cain for murdering his brother, Abel. The myth, which actually persisted into the mid-20th century, was based on the belief that this 'mark' was being black. This assumption did not take into account that Cain's descendants were likely all killed in the flood. Nor the fact that Adam and Eve were not 'white,' and therefore Cain would have never been white in the first place, to be 'marked' with color. This is a common fallacy, despite the fact that most scholars consider the 'fertile crescent' area is most likely the 'cradle of civilization.'
Also, keep in mind that the New Testament Church began in the middle east, spread to Asia minor (Ephesus,Galatia, Phrygia) and Africa (Ethiopia, Egypt), Greece and Rome, being shared first with the Jew, then the Gentile. Jews were middle easterners. So, contrary to popular Western ideals, Europeans were late comers in biblical and church history.
Helpful links:
Mormonism and Salvation:
http://www.4truth.net/Mormon_Plan_of_Salvation/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/do-mormons-accept-what-orthodox-christianity-considers-biblical-salvation
Witnessing to Mormons
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/witnessing-to-mormons
Celestial Marriages
http://www.4truth.net/Mormon_Family/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/mormon-temple
How to Answer Mormons
http://www.4truth.net/what-to-say-to-mormons/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/what-if-i-am-asked-to-pray-about-the-book-of-mormon
The following page is not part of the lesson, it is to explain two practices & beliefs that I did not have room to go into, and which is worth knowing for the adult who may want to know more about the Mormon faith.
Baptism of the Dead and salvation after death are based on the Bible, not any Mormon books. Therefore, this is a topic that can be difficult for the Christian to discuss if not prepared with a good understanding of what the passages actually mean, and what they do not.
Mormons use 1 Corinthians 15:29 and 1 Peter 3:18-20 & 1 Peter 4:6.
1 Peter 3:18-20: For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water,
1 Peter 4:6: For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
1 Corinthians 15:29: Now if there is no resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them?
In a nutshell (much more detail can be found here: http://www.equip.org/articles/the-mormon-doctrine-of-salvation-for-the-dead), the first two passages are said by the Mormons to prove that Jesus preached to the dead during the period when He was in the grave. However, the first passage shows that Jesus proclaimed the gospel to fallen angels, not dead people. Not, as an invitation to salvation, but a proclamation of His victory over sin and death. The reference to Noah’s time is referring to the time when most Jews & Christians of Peter’s day would understand was a reference to the fallen angels who consorted with human women creating the rebellious race of Nephilim. Peter’s contemporaries would have understood that Noah’s time was a very wicked one, as further evidenced by this rebellion on the part of the angels.
In the second passage, it is important to note that it says the gospel was preached to those who are now dead, not that they were dead when preached to. Since the intent of Peter’s writing in these passages was to comfort the persecuted Christians of his day, it would be of little comfort that they are suffering now for doing what is right, when wicked people, including their persecutors are being offered salvation after death.
Finally, the consensus among Bible scholars on the unusual 1 Corinthians passage, is that the key to understanding this passage is the verb tense. Paul uses the third person plural, referring to ‘they’ who practice this unbiblical rite. He is using what is called an ad hominem argument, ie, using an argument based upon what people were doing. An example of which, is his argument in 1 Corinthians 8:10 where he uses the illustration of eating meat in an idol’s temple, without condemning the practice. While in either case, he was not promoting the act, only using a practice they would know of from what was happening around them. In conclusion, in every other passage he uses ‘we’ or ‘you’ in reference to Christian baptism, this is the only place where he says ‘they’ when referring to this act.
Famous Mormons:
Mitt Romney, politician
Glenn Beck, Fox News host
Donny Osmond, entertainer
Marie Osmond, entertainer
Amy Adams, actress (Enchanted)
Katherine Heigl, actor
Stephanie Meyer, author of Twilight series
Gladys Knight, singer
Jon Heder, actor (Napolean Dynomite, Blades of Glory)
John Beck, NFL player
What is a cult? The dictionary definition of a cult is "a religion regarded as unorthodox or spurious." There are many cults, but we will only discuss 3 of the more common and popular ones. The three discussed here are called Christian cults because they take the basic teachings of Christ and change them into a new religion with 'new' insight or 'new' revelation since Christ's time on earth. Most cults also require total allegiance to the belief, often with harsh penalties for leaving, such as the requirement that family members and friends excommunicate the wayward member (disown them). In the case of the more extreme cults, leaving is not an option-- attempts to leave can end in death.
Mormons
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) was founded by Joseph Smith. He claimed that God and Jesus spoke to him on numerous occasions through an angel named Moroni. Moroni told Joseph Smith about the ‘true church.’ Which he calls the Restored Church (restored to what the early Christian church should have led to). Smith was ‘inspired’ to write the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine of the Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price. These are all read along with the Bible (but the authority of Smith’s writing is taken as equal to the Bible, sometimes higher).
"But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed." 2 Peter 2:1-3 [in fact, read all of chapter 2; it describes false teachers and their attributes] As will be covered in the second part of this lesson, Joseph Smith did bring 'sudden destruction' upon himself.
“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!” Galatians 1:8
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book”. Revelation 22:18-19 (These words are in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible.)
What Mormons believe about Salvation: Jesus overcame physical death and therefore guaranteed physical resurrection (reincarnation). They believe that through the Atonement of Christ and obedience to all the ordinances and laws of the gospel, you can be saved. Meaning physical death was conquered by Christ, but spiritual death can only be conquered by your works. There is no salvation outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They believe you can live as perfect a life as Jesus- because they do not believe in original sin (a fancy term for sin passed down from Adam to all the human race).
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man…” Romans 8:1-3
“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned-“ Romans 5:12
“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” 1 Corinthians 15:22
Heaven and Hell- Mormons believe there are 3 levels of heaven: celestial, terrestrial, and telestial.
Celestial heaven is the highest level of heaven reserved for good Mormons who have been completely obedient to the gospel law. The reward is godhood and perpetual parenthood (eternal pregnancy for the women).
Terrestrial heaven is for lukewarm Mormons and good non-Mormons and those who accept Mormonism after death.
Telestial heaven is the lowest level of kingdom glory and is where the wicked and most of humanity will spend eternity. This is the Mormon hell: knowing you will never achieve the highest possible happiness.
[Heaven is described in Revelation Ch. 21 as a place where none who are wicked will abide.]
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Matt. 7:21
“For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment…” 2 Peter2:4
“Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.” Revelation 20:14
God’s origin-Mormons believe that God is the Supreme Being of the universe, but was once a human, he lived a perfect life and attained godhood. They also believe he has a physical body and that he has one or more wives in heaven now. God’s wife is called Holy Mother.
“God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." John 4:24
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me." Isaiah 43:10
Jesus- was born of man, elevated to godhood. Jesus was also once a man who became God. He was not part of God nor was he the Son of God (in the divine sense) while on earth, and he was not the result of the Holy Spirit’s overshadowing of Mary. He was the result of Mary and Joseph’s physical union. He and Satan were spirit brothers (in heaven before they were born on earth), and both sons of God.
“But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.”
2 Corinthians 2:3-4
“The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” Luke 1:35
Divinity of Man- Mormons believe that every man who is worthy, will rule on his own planet as a god. Each woman whose husband achieves godhood will dwell with him on their planet, populating the planet, eternally pregnant.
the first lie spoken to Adam & Eve in the garden: "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." Genesis 3:5
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” 1 Tim. 4:7
“You said in your heart, 'I will go up to heaven. I will raise my throne above the stars of God. And I will sit on the mount of meeting in the far north. I will go much higher than the clouds. I will make myself like the Most High.' But you will be brought down to the place of the dead, to the bottom of the grave.” Isaiah 14:13-15 [refers to Satan's sin of desiring to be like God, ie, be a god; and of course that got him booted out of heaven and insures his eventual abode in hell].
Baptism-Mormons believe that baptism is essential to obtaining eternal life.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Baptism for the dead- Since baptism is so important, Mormons believe that those ancestors who died not hearing the gospel can be ‘redeemed’ by proxy. Meaning someone who is ‘saved’ can stand in for them and be baptized. This is why the Mormons have the largest genealogical library in the world. Family genealogy is very important to them.
“Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment,…” Hebrews 9:27;
The parable of the rich man and Lazarus shows that no repentance is allowed after death (Luke 16:19-31):
"...He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'
Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.'
'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'
He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' "
Living Prophets-Besides the Bible and other extra-biblical sources listed above, the Mormons depend on the word of living prophets. The current prophet reveals new revelations whenever God speaks to him. Often this is so that the scriptures can be interpreted in such a way as to remain relevant to present day needs.
“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:20-21
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” Matt. 7:15 (see scripture of Rev. 22:18-19 listed in the first paragraph of this lesson).
"But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping." 2 Peter 2:1-3
Terms to know:
Polytheism- Mormons believe that Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit are three different gods. This is not the Christian belief in the Trinity, which says God is one being with 3 distinct revealed personalities.
“Hear oh Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Deut. 6:4;
“I and the Father are one." John 10:30
Spirit children- The belief that everyone exists in heaven as spirits before they are born on earth. They are learning things, and waiting to be born. This is why it is important to Mormons to have lots of children. They think there are many, many spirits in heaven waiting to be given bodies.
Polygamy- Practiced by John Smith and many Mormons until it was banned in 1890 by the highest ranking elder of the church (called a prophet). It is grounds for excommunication now. However, it is still practiced by many LDS, but they must be discrete. There are factions of Mormons who openly practice this, like the group in west Texas whose children were seized, called the Fundamentalist Church of LDS.
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." Ephesians 5:31
Missions- All Mormon boys are strongly encouraged to go on mission sometime between high school and college. This is for 2 years in a city and country of the LDS church’s choosing. Girls may go on an 18 mth. mission, but don’t have to. There is a negative stigma for any that return early, or do not go. It can mean the difference between getting a good Mormon girl to marry you, and ‘settling’ for a gentile girl. It also influences your standing in the church, which of course is important for achieving the benefits of celestial heaven in the afterlife. They use the James 2:18 verse to uphold their strong beliefs in working for salvation (they call it exaltation instead of salvation), which says: “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” However, this scripture means that works are proof and a manifestation of our salvation, not that our works save us.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
Celestial marriage- Any couple married in the temple is married for all eternity. These couples will get to have spirit children in the next life. If you are not married in the temple it is just ‘until death do us part.’ A woman must have her husband ‘resurrect’ her from the grave in the afterlife if they are to be eternally wed. If he does not, she will still resurrect, but not as his wife.
“When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.” Mark 12:25
Caffeine free- Official church doctrine is “no hot drinks”- coffee and tea, because they contain a high level of caffeine, and those were the only available hot drinks during the time that Joseph Smith lived. It does not, however, apply to other sources of caffeine such as hot chocolate, colas or chocolate. Some Mormons abstain from all caffeine, others just go by the letter of the law and abstain from coffee and tea.
Sacred Underwear- There are many things that the average Mormon does not know about their own church. They must be high enough in the church to have some of the more ‘sacred’ rituals revealed to them. Once a member has shown that they are worthy, they can go through the Endowment ceremony, where they do a lot of secret rituals, learn secret passwords and secret handshakes; are given sacred underwear and a secret ‘New Name.’ This underwear must be worn at all times, except when they shower or have relations with their spouse. This is one of the more embarrassing occult rituals of LDS, and many will deny it, or refuse to talk about it.
“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.” Colossians 2:8-10
[We do not need a bunch of extra rituals to be closer to God, or show our worthiness to serve Him. We need only believe, there are no secrets here on earth. However, in heaven there will be great knowledge opened unto us that we could not possibly grasp or understand here on earth: "But as it is written: “ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9]
“…To him who overcomes...I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it." Revelation 2:17
[We will receive a New Name-- but not until we get to heaven.]
Origins of Black People-
Joseph Smith was a man of his time, and as such, his 'revelations' from God reflect his racial perspective and popular racial attitudes of his day. According to the Book of Mormon, published in the late 1820's, being black was a curse. This is not shocking if you are familiar with the history of the western Christian church of that time as well. During this time, most white Christians believed that being black was a curse.***
According to Mormon doctrine, during the war in heaven (Revelation 12:7) when Michael and Satan fought, a third of the angels fought with Michael and being righteous gained white skin, and a third of the angels fought with Satan and became demons. The final third who were indecisive and didn't take sides were cursed with black skin. Since Mormons believe we are pre-existent (see above info on spirit children) before we are born on earth, this means these actions of these angels also affect skin color on earth.
In the 1970's, the LDS church was being pressured about their racist doctrine. The church was in danger of losing its non-profit tax exempt status, from the IRS. Also, many university sports teams were refusing to play in Utah (the state where the LDS church is headquartered). Thanks to a timely 'new revelation' from God in 1978 to the church's then Living Prophet, the church ended its discriminatory practices. These discriminatory practices included a prohibition of blacks from the priesthood instated by Brigham Young in 1854.
How to Witness to Mormons-
LDS is a cult like Jehovah’s Witnesses, because it uses scripture and twists it so that if you are not a mature Christian with a thorough knowledge of the word, you may be deceived into thinking they are Christians. They do believe they are Christians.
They are polytheistic- this is the main thing to address with a Mormon- that they do not believe that there is only one God.
There is no archaeological evidence for the Book of Mormon. Unlike the Bible, for which there are numerous evidences, there have been none to substantiate the validity of the Book of Mormon.
The Book of Abraham (a book written by Mormon founder John Smith) has been proven to be a fraud.
They believe the Bible has been corrupted over the years, as evidenced by the many different translations of the Bible.
***This heretical teaching on race began in 18th century American and European circles. It was promoted by Christian churches in both America and Europe. It refers to the passage in Genesis 4:10-12, when God put a 'mark' on Cain for murdering his brother, Abel. The myth, which actually persisted into the mid-20th century, was based on the belief that this 'mark' was being black. This assumption did not take into account that Cain's descendants were likely all killed in the flood. Nor the fact that Adam and Eve were not 'white,' and therefore Cain would have never been white in the first place, to be 'marked' with color. This is a common fallacy, despite the fact that most scholars consider the 'fertile crescent' area is most likely the 'cradle of civilization.'
Also, keep in mind that the New Testament Church began in the middle east, spread to Asia minor (Ephesus,Galatia, Phrygia) and Africa (Ethiopia, Egypt), Greece and Rome, being shared first with the Jew, then the Gentile. Jews were middle easterners. So, contrary to popular Western ideals, Europeans were late comers in biblical and church history.
Helpful links:
Mormonism and Salvation:
http://www.4truth.net/Mormon_Plan_of_Salvation/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/do-mormons-accept-what-orthodox-christianity-considers-biblical-salvation
Witnessing to Mormons
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/witnessing-to-mormons
Celestial Marriages
http://www.4truth.net/Mormon_Family/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/mormon-temple
How to Answer Mormons
http://www.4truth.net/what-to-say-to-mormons/
http://www.equip.org/perspectives/what-if-i-am-asked-to-pray-about-the-book-of-mormon
The following page is not part of the lesson, it is to explain two practices & beliefs that I did not have room to go into, and which is worth knowing for the adult who may want to know more about the Mormon faith.
Baptism of the Dead and salvation after death are based on the Bible, not any Mormon books. Therefore, this is a topic that can be difficult for the Christian to discuss if not prepared with a good understanding of what the passages actually mean, and what they do not.
Mormons use 1 Corinthians 15:29 and 1 Peter 3:18-20 & 1 Peter 4:6.
1 Peter 3:18-20: For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water,
1 Peter 4:6: For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
1 Corinthians 15:29: Now if there is no resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them?
In a nutshell (much more detail can be found here: http://www.equip.org/articles/the-mormon-doctrine-of-salvation-for-the-dead), the first two passages are said by the Mormons to prove that Jesus preached to the dead during the period when He was in the grave. However, the first passage shows that Jesus proclaimed the gospel to fallen angels, not dead people. Not, as an invitation to salvation, but a proclamation of His victory over sin and death. The reference to Noah’s time is referring to the time when most Jews & Christians of Peter’s day would understand was a reference to the fallen angels who consorted with human women creating the rebellious race of Nephilim. Peter’s contemporaries would have understood that Noah’s time was a very wicked one, as further evidenced by this rebellion on the part of the angels.
In the second passage, it is important to note that it says the gospel was preached to those who are now dead, not that they were dead when preached to. Since the intent of Peter’s writing in these passages was to comfort the persecuted Christians of his day, it would be of little comfort that they are suffering now for doing what is right, when wicked people, including their persecutors are being offered salvation after death.
Finally, the consensus among Bible scholars on the unusual 1 Corinthians passage, is that the key to understanding this passage is the verb tense. Paul uses the third person plural, referring to ‘they’ who practice this unbiblical rite. He is using what is called an ad hominem argument, ie, using an argument based upon what people were doing. An example of which, is his argument in 1 Corinthians 8:10 where he uses the illustration of eating meat in an idol’s temple, without condemning the practice. While in either case, he was not promoting the act, only using a practice they would know of from what was happening around them. In conclusion, in every other passage he uses ‘we’ or ‘you’ in reference to Christian baptism, this is the only place where he says ‘they’ when referring to this act.
Famous Mormons:
Mitt Romney, politician
Glenn Beck, Fox News host
Donny Osmond, entertainer
Marie Osmond, entertainer
Amy Adams, actress (Enchanted)
Katherine Heigl, actor
Stephanie Meyer, author of Twilight series
Gladys Knight, singer
Jon Heder, actor (Napolean Dynomite, Blades of Glory)
John Beck, NFL player
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