Are you curious about the main rules that Mormons follow? In this article, we will explore the fundamental principles and guidelines that Mormons adhere to in their faith. From principles of honesty and kindness to the importance of family and service, we will examine the core values that shape the lives of Mormons. Embark on this enlightening journey to gain a deeper understanding of the main principles that guide the Mormon community.
Belief in God and Jesus Christ
The belief in God as the Heavenly Father
As a Mormon, your belief in God is central to your faith. You believe in God as the Heavenly Father, the creator of the universe, and the ultimate source of love and guidance in your life. You see God as your loving parent who wants the best for you and has a plan for your eternal happiness. This belief brings comfort and reassurance, knowing that you are never alone and that God is always there to support you.
The belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer
In addition to your belief in God, you also hold a deep belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer. You believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that through His sacrifice and atonement, He has provided a way for you to be forgiven of your sins and return to God’s presence. Your faith in Jesus Christ brings you hope, peace, and the motivation to strive for righteousness in your daily life.
The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon as a sacred text
The Book of Mormon holds a special place in your faith as a Mormon. You believe it to be a sacred text, just like the Bible, containing the words of ancient prophets who lived in the Americas. According to your beliefs, the Book of Mormon is a testament of Jesus Christ and provides additional insight and guidance for your spiritual journey. It serves as a companion to the Bible and helps deepen your understanding of God’s teachings and plan for humanity.
The study and adherence to the teachings of the Book of Mormon
As a devoted Mormon, you actively study and adhere to the teachings found in the Book of Mormon. You believe that by immersing yourself in its pages, you can gain spiritual insights, guidance, and inspiration to navigate the challenges of life. You strive to live according to the principles taught in the Book of Mormon, such as faith, repentance, charity, and obedience to God’s commandments. Through your study and application of these teachings, you seek to draw closer to God and live a life of righteousness.
The Bible
The belief in the Bible as scripture
Alongside the Book of Mormon, you also believe in the Bible as a sacred scripture. The Bible holds a revered place in your faith, as it contains the accounts and teachings of ancient prophets and apostles who followed God throughout history. You view the Bible as an essential guidebook for your spiritual journey, rich in wisdom, and timeless truths that are applicable to your life today.
The study and adherence to the teachings of the Bible
As a devout Mormon, you prioritize the study of the Bible. You strive to understand and apply its teachings to your daily life. The Bible provides a foundation for your faith and serves as a source of inspiration and guidance. Through its narratives, parables, and teachings, you gain insights into the nature of God, the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, and principles of righteous living. You seek to align your actions and choices with the moral and ethical standards outlined in the Bible.
Laws of Chastity and Sexual Purity
Abstinence from sexual relations before marriage
As a Mormon, you adhere to a strict code of chastity and sexual purity. It is believed that sexual intimacy is a sacred and special bond that is to be reserved for marriage. You commit to abstaining from any sexual activity before marriage, including premarital sex, pornography, and any form of sexual exploration outside the boundaries of a committed relationship. This commitment is based on the belief that sexual intimacy is a gift from God and is most fulfilling and meaningful within the bonds of marriage.
Fidelity and monogamy within marriage
Within the context of marriage, Mormons believe in the importance of fidelity and monogamy. Once married, you strive to maintain faithfulness to your spouse, both emotionally and physically. Adultery and infidelity are seen as serious violations of the marital covenant and are strongly discouraged. Mormons believe that a strong and healthy marriage is crucial to individual happiness and family stability, and fidelity is considered a cornerstone of a successful marriage.
Law of Health
Avoidance of harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and drugs
As a Mormon, you are encouraged to prioritize your physical and mental well-being by avoiding harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. You believe that your body is a sacred gift from God and that you have a responsibility to care for it. By abstaining from these substances, you seek to maintain good health, mental clarity, and spiritual sensitivity. This commitment extends to not smoking, refraining from excessive alcohol consumption, and avoiding illegal narcotics.
Emphasis on physical and mental well-being
In addition to avoiding harmful substances, Mormons place a strong emphasis on overall physical and mental well-being. You are encouraged to lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle, engaging in regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, getting sufficient sleep, and taking care of your mental and emotional health. This emphasis on well-being stems from the belief that a healthy body and mind are essential for fulfilling your divine potential and for effectively serving God and others.
Tithing
Requirement to donate a tenth of one’s income to the church
Tithing is an essential aspect of the Mormon faith, with adherents being required to donate a tenth of their income to the church. This practice is rooted in the belief that everything we have is ultimately a gift from God, and giving a portion of our resources back to Him is an act of gratitude and trust. Tithing funds are used to support the operations of the church, including the construction and maintenance of places of worship, educational programs, and humanitarian aid efforts.
Use of tithing funds for church purposes and humanitarian aid
The tithing funds collected by the church are used for various purposes. A significant portion is dedicated to supporting the worldwide operations and programs of the church, enabling the construction and maintenance of temples, meetinghouses, and other facilities necessary for worship and community activities. Tithing funds also contribute to the financing of educational institutions and charitable initiatives, such as disaster relief efforts and humanitarian aid projects. Mormons view tithing as a means of participating in the work of the church and of contributing to the welfare of others.
Law of Fasting
Monthly fasting for a 24-hour period
One of the religious observances in the Mormon faith is monthly fasting. Mormons typically abstain from food and drink for a 24-hour period on the first Sunday of each month. During this time, individuals are encouraged to spend the hours in reflection, prayer, and meditation. This practice serves as a way to draw closer to God, reflect on personal spiritual growth, seek guidance, and express gratitude. Fasting is seen as an opportunity for self-discipline, humility, and increased spiritual sensitivity.
Prayer and reflection during the fasting period
While fasting, Mormons engage in focused prayer and reflection. This dedicated time allows individuals to deepen their connection with God, seek His guidance, and express gratitude and supplication. By abstaining from physical nourishment, Mormons believe they are able to redirect their attention and energy toward spiritual matters, allowing for greater clarity of thought and a heightened spiritual experience. Fasting is seen as an act of devotion and a way to receive spiritual insights and blessings.
Marriage and Family
Importance of marriage between a man and a woman
The Mormon faith places great importance on the institution of marriage, believing that it is ordained by God and is a central aspect of eternal progression and happiness. Mormons affirm the belief that marriage is between a man and a woman, based on scriptural teachings. The sacred nature of marriage is emphasized, highlighting the need for commitment, love, and mutual respect between partners. Marriage provides a foundation for the establishment of a family and the nurturing of children in a stable and loving environment.
Emphasis on family values and raising children
Within the Mormon faith, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of family values and the responsibility of parents to raise their children in a loving and nurturing environment. Mormons believe that the family unit is essential for individual growth, happiness, and eternal progression. Parents are encouraged to teach their children principles of faith, integrity, compassion, and service. Family activities, such as weekly family home evenings and regular family prayer and scripture study, are encouraged to strengthen familial bonds and foster spiritual growth.
Attendance at Church Services
Regular attendance at Sunday worship services
Mormons place a high value on regular attendance at Sunday worship services held in their local congregations. These services, typically referred to as sacrament meetings, are an opportunity for members to gather together as a community, partake of the sacrament (communion), and worship God through prayer, hymn singing, and listening to sermons. Attending church services allows individuals to strengthen their faith, gain additional spiritual insights, and receive support and encouragement from fellow believers. It is also a time for building relationships and fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
Participating in other church activities and meetings
In addition to regular attendance at Sunday worship services, Mormons are encouraged to actively participate in various other church activities and meetings. These may include additional Sunday school classes, youth programs, women’s and men’s organizations, and community service initiatives. These activities provide opportunities for individuals to deepen their understanding of gospel principles, develop talents and skills, and build friendships within the community. Active participation in church activities fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens personal and collective spiritual growth.
Missionary Work
Encouragement to spread the teachings of Mormonism
Mormons place a strong emphasis on missionary work and actively encourage members to share their faith and the teachings of Mormonism with others. The belief in the divine calling to reach out to others stems from the conviction that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings great joy and can positively impact people’s lives. Mormons seek to fulfill their responsibility to share their beliefs by inviting others to learn about Mormonism and the principles it teaches.
Serving as missionaries in various locations around the world
Many Mormons answer the call to serve as full-time missionaries for a period of 18 to 24 months, dedicating their time and efforts to sharing the teachings of Mormonism with individuals across the globe. These missionaries may be assigned to locations near their homes or far away in foreign countries. The purpose of their mission is to invite others to come unto Christ, teach them about the restored gospel, and provide support and understanding to those who are interested in learning more. The missionary experience is seen as a transformative time of personal growth, deepened faith, and service to others.
In conclusion, as a Mormon, your faith encompasses a range of beliefs and principles that guide your daily life. You believe in God as the Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer. Sacred texts, such as the Book of Mormon and the Bible, serve as sources of divine guidance and wisdom. You adhere to teachings on chastity, sexual purity, health, and the importance of strong marriages and families. Actively engaging with your faith through regular church attendance, participation in various activities, and missionary work allows you to deepen your spiritual connection, find purpose, and contribute to the welfare of others.