So you’ve probably heard of Mormonism, but have you ever wondered what exactly it stands on? Well, let’s shed some light on this fascinating faith. Mormonism, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is built upon a strong foundation of four main pillars. These pillars, or core beliefs, form the bedrock of the religion and guide its followers in their spiritual journey. From the belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior to the importance of family and community, let’s explore the main pillars that shape Mormonism’s doctrine and values.
Belief in God and Jesus Christ
Belief in the Godhead
As a Mormon, your belief in God and Jesus Christ is at the core of your faith. You believe in the Godhead, which consists of God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. This belief in the three distinct beings who make up the Godhead sets Mormonism apart from other Christian denominations. You view God as a loving and merciful Heavenly Father who is deeply involved in your life and wants the best for you.
Belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ
In Mormonism, you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world. You have a deep conviction of His divinity and believe that He lived a perfect life, performed miracles, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for the redemption of humankind. Your belief in Jesus Christ influences your daily life, inspiring you to strive to emulate His teachings and example of love, service, and forgiveness.
Belief in the Atonement
The Atonement holds a central place in your belief system as a Mormon. You firmly recognize and rely on the Atonement of Jesus Christ as the means through which you can repent, be forgiven of your sins, and progress spiritually. You believe that through His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and His crucifixion on the cross, Jesus Christ took upon Himself the sins of the world, allowing you and all humanity the opportunity to be cleansed and reconciled with God.
Book of Mormon
Belief in the Book of Mormon as scripture
As a Mormon, you consider the Book of Mormon to be a sacred volume of scripture, comparable to the Bible. You believe that the Book of Mormon was translated by Joseph Smith, under the guidance and inspiration of God, from ancient records written on golden plates. You cherish this book as a source of spiritual guidance, inspiration, and scriptural teachings.
Consideration of the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ
In addition to the Bible, you view the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ. It provides a complementary and expanded understanding of Christ’s teachings, His ministry in the Americas, and the plan of salvation. The Book of Mormon serves as tangible evidence affirming the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ and reinforces your belief in Him as your Savior.
The teachings and principles found in the Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon is a rich source of teachings and principles that serve as a guide for how to live a Christ-centered life. Its stories, parables, and doctrines speak directly to your heart and provide clarity on important topics such as faith, baptism, prayer, charity, and forgiveness. You find solace and inspiration in the Book of Mormon as you seek to navigate the challenges of daily life and deepen your relationship with God.
Joseph Smith
Belief in Joseph Smith as a prophet
As a Mormon, you believe that Joseph Smith was called by God to be a prophet and the instrument through which the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ took place. You accept him as a true prophet, divinely appointed to receive revelations, translate ancient texts, and guide the establishment of the restored Church. Your belief in Joseph Smith forms a significant part of your faith and serves as a testimony of the ongoing communication between God and His children.
The First Vision
Central to your belief in Joseph Smith is the First Vision, a sacred experience he had as a young boy. According to Smith’s account, he sought answers to questions about the right church to join and was visited by God the Father and Jesus Christ. This extraordinary event marked the beginning of the Restoration and reaffirmed the reality of God and the divinity of Jesus Christ.
Restoration of the priesthood through Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith played a vital role in restoring the priesthood authority to the earth. You believe that he received the priesthood directly from heavenly messengers, such as John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John, who held the keys necessary for the administration of sacred ordinances and the governance of the Church. This restoration of the priesthood ensures that the Church operates under the authority of God.
The translation of the Book of Mormon
Another significant contribution of Joseph Smith was the translation of the Book of Mormon. Through the power of God, he translated the ancient records found on golden plates into English, enabling people of all nations and languages to have access to the teachings and testimonies contained within. This translation stands as a remarkable feat and a testament to the divine guidance and assistance Joseph Smith received throughout his prophetic ministry.
Continuing Revelation
Belief in ongoing revelation
Mormonism emphasizes the belief in ongoing revelation. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you believe that God continues to communicate with His children through modern-day prophets. You trust that God’s revelations are not confined to ancient times but are relevant to your life today. This belief brings comfort and reassurance that God is aware of your individual circumstances and provides guidance specific to your needs.
The role of modern-day prophets
In Mormonism, you have a deep respect for and reverence towards modern-day prophets who are called to lead and guide the Church. These prophets receive guidance, inspiration, and direction from God, which they share with the Church and the world. They act as a conduit for the divine will, providing teachings, warnings, and encouragement that are essential for your spiritual growth and well-being.
The importance of personal revelation through prayer
While relying on the revelations received by modern-day prophets, you also believe in the importance of personal revelation through prayer. You have the privilege of communicating directly with God and seeking His guidance and answers to your individual questions and concerns. Through prayer, you can receive personal revelation, guidance, and comfort as you navigate life’s challenges and make important decisions.
Family
The centrality of the family in Mormonism
Family holds a central and cherished place in Mormonism. You believe that families are essential units in God’s plan and provide the opportunity for individuals to learn, grow, and progress together. The importance of family is emphasized in all aspects of Mormon doctrine and practice, with a focus on strengthening family relationships and fostering a loving and supportive environment.
Eternal nature of family relationships
In Mormonism, you believe in the eternal nature of family relationships. Marriage and family connections extend beyond mortality, continuing into the eternities. This belief brings great comfort and provides motivation for you to cultivate strong familial bonds and nurture relationships that can endure beyond death.
The significance of marriage and parenthood
Marriage and parenthood are viewed as sacred responsibilities within Mormonism. You believe that marriage is a partnership between a man and a woman, ordained and sanctioned by God. It is through marriage that you have the opportunity to create and raise children in a loving and nurturing environment. Parenthood is seen as a compelling and divine call, providing the opportunity to guide and teach children in the ways of righteousness, instilling moral values and a deep love for God.
Temple Worship
The importance of temples in Mormonism
Temples hold a special place in the hearts of Mormons. You see temples as sacred and holy places where individuals can draw closer to God and receive spiritual blessings. Temples are viewed as houses of the Lord, set apart for sacred ordinances and rites that are essential for personal spiritual growth and eternal progression.
Ordinances and rituals performed in temples
Within the temples, you participate in various ordinances and rituals that are central to your faith. These include sacred ceremonies such as baptism for the dead, endowment, and sealing. These ordinances and rituals form a symbolic bridge between heaven and earth, connecting you with your ancestors, and enabling you to make covenants with God that are binding not only in this life but also in the eternities.
The belief in eternal families strengthened through temple ordinances
One of the core beliefs associated with temple worship is the belief in eternal families. Through temple ordinances, families can be sealed together for time and all eternity, creating an unbreakable bond within the eternities. This belief brings great joy and peace, knowing that the familial ties you cherish here on earth can endure throughout the eternities.
Service and Charity
The emphasis on service to others
Service to others and acts of charity are highly valued and emphasized in Mormonism. You believe in the importance of reaching out to those in need, showing kindness, and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether it be through organized efforts within the Church or individual acts of service, you strive to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ by loving and serving those around you.
The role of charity in Mormonism
Charity is viewed as a fundamental principle of the gospel in Mormonism. It is the pure love of Christ, flowing from a sincere desire to help and bless others. You strive to develop and cultivate charity in your own life, recognizing its transformative power and its ability to bring unity and healing to individuals, families, and communities.
Participation in humanitarian efforts and community service
As a Mormon, you actively engage in humanitarian efforts and community service. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a robust humanitarian program that assists those in need around the world, regardless of their religious affiliation. Through your contributions of time, talents, and resources, you are able to make a positive impact and contribute to the well-being of others, following the example of Jesus Christ.
Modesty
The value placed on modesty in dress and behavior
In Mormonism, modesty is highly valued in both dress and behavior. Modesty goes beyond simply adhering to a dress code; it is a way of life that manifests in the way you present yourself, the media you consume, and the respect you show for others. By striving for modesty, you aim to demonstrate reverence for your body and your personal worth, as well as show respect for the sacredness of God’s commandments.
Guidelines for modesty within the Mormon community
Within the Mormon community, guidelines for modesty are established to help members make choices that align with their beliefs. These guidelines often involve avoiding revealing or immodest clothing, maintaining appropriate speech and conduct, and being mindful of how one’s actions may affect others. The purpose of these guidelines is not to restrict personal freedom but to foster an environment of respect and promote self-discipline.
Emphasis on respectful and modest conduct
Modesty extends beyond external appearances; it also encompasses conduct and behavior. Mormons place a high value on treating others with kindness, respect, and dignity. This includes using appropriate language, behaving modestly in public and private settings, and showing reverence in sacred spaces. The emphasis on respectful and modest conduct reflects a desire to reflect the teachings and example of Jesus Christ in all areas of life.
Education
The importance of education in Mormonism
Mormonism places a strong emphasis on education and views it as a means of personal and spiritual growth. You believe that education is not only a way to gain knowledge and skills but also a way to develop character, broaden perspectives, and fulfill individual potential. The pursuit of education is seen as a lifelong endeavor that encompasses both secular and spiritual learning.
Encouragement to seek knowledge and personal development
Within Mormonism, you are encouraged to seek knowledge and personal development in various areas of life. This includes academic pursuits, vocational training, and spiritual education. The principle of seeking learning, by study and also by faith, is central to your faith and inspires you to engage in continuous learning and personal growth in all aspects of your life.
Emphasis on lifelong learning
Mormonism emphasizes the value of lifelong learning and personal development. You understand that learning is not limited to formal education but can be pursued through a variety of means, including reading, attending lectures and conferences, participating in study groups, and engaging in meaningful conversations. The pursuit of knowledge throughout your lifetime contributes to your intellectual, spiritual, and emotional well-being, enabling you to become more informed, compassionate, and capable of serving others.
Self-Reliance
The principle of self-reliance
Self-reliance is a principle that holds great importance in Mormonism. You believe in the value of taking responsibility for your own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and in developing skills and abilities to provide for yourself and others. Self-reliance encompasses areas such as education, employment, finances, and emotional well-being, and is seen as a means of becoming self-sufficient and contributing positively to society.
Teachings on personal responsibility and accountability
Mormonism teaches the principle of personal responsibility and accountability. You understand that you have agency and the ability to make choices that impact your life and the lives of others. This principle encourages you to take ownership of your actions and decisions and to recognize the consequences they may bring. By embracing personal responsibility and accountability, you strive to become a more self-reliant and conscientious individual.
The encouragement to develop skills and provide for oneself and others
Within Mormonism, there is an emphasis on developing skills and abilities that enable you to provide for yourself and others. This involves acquiring knowledge, honing talents, and cultivating a strong work ethic. By actively seeking ways to improve your personal and professional abilities, you can cultivate self-reliance, find fulfillment in your individual contributions, and positively impact the lives of those around you.