In the fascinating world of Mormonism, the question of who Jesus is takes on unique significance. With a deep belief in Jesus as the central figure of their faith, Mormons view him not only as the Son of God but also as a Savior and Redeemer. Their understanding of Jesus goes beyond the traditional Christian narrative, revealing a multifaceted perspective that encompasses his role within their religious framework. Let’s take a closer look at the distinct portrayal of Jesus according to Mormonism.
The Divinity of Jesus
Jesus as the Son of God
In Mormonism, Jesus is considered the literal Son of God and is revered as a divine being. Mormons believe that in the pre-mortal existence, Jesus was chosen and appointed by Heavenly Father to be the Savior and Redeemer of mankind. As the Son of God, Jesus possesses all the attributes and characteristics of His Father, including love, mercy, and wisdom.
Jesus as a Member of the Godhead
Mormons believe in the Godhead, which consists of three separate beings – Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Jesus plays an essential role as a member of the Godhead, alongside His Father. Mormons view Jesus as co-eternal with Heavenly Father, meaning that He has always existed and will continue to do so. They believe that Jesus played a significant role in the creation of the Earth and continues to be actively involved in the affairs of mankind.
Jesus as the Savior and Redeemer
Mormons believe that Jesus is the Savior and Redeemer of all humanity. They emphasize His role in the Atonement – the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus – as the means by which individuals can be forgiven of their sins and find redemption. Mormons believe that through Jesus’ sacrifice, they can be reconciled with God and receive eternal life.
Pre-Mortal Existence
The Council in Heaven
According to Mormon doctrine, before our existence on Earth, there was a council in heaven where Heavenly Father presented the Plan of Salvation. In this council, Jesus Christ played a crucial role, agreeing to be the Savior and advocate for mankind. This council was a gathering of Heavenly Father’s spirit children, and it served as a place for important decisions regarding the progression of God’s children.
Jesus’ Role in the Council
During the council in heaven, Jesus Christ accepted the Father’s plan and volunteered to be the Savior. He knew that fulfilling this role would require Him to experience mortality, suffer, and die for the sins of humanity. Jesus’ selfless devotion and willingness to carry out Heavenly Father’s plan demonstrated His great love for mankind.
The Plan of Salvation
The Plan of Salvation, presented in the council in heaven, outlined the journey of God’s children on Earth and their potential for eternal destiny. Its purpose was to provide individuals with the opportunity to gain physical bodies, experience trials and challenges, learn and grow, and ultimately return to live with Heavenly Father. Jesus’ central role in the plan enables individuals to overcome sin and death, ensuring the possibility of eternal progression.
The Earthly Ministry of Jesus
Baptism by John the Baptist
Mormons believe that Jesus began His earthly ministry by being baptized by John the Baptist as a symbolic act of obedience. Despite being without sin, Jesus chose to undergo baptism to set an example for His followers and to fulfill all righteousness. This event marked the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and demonstrated His humility and commitment to Heavenly Father’s will.
Teachings and Miracles
Throughout His time on Earth, Jesus taught profound and enlightening principles to His disciples and the people. Mormons consider Jesus as the greatest teacher to have ever lived. His teachings emphasized the importance of love, forgiveness, faith, and living a righteous life. Mormons believe that Jesus performed numerous miracles during His ministry, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and feeding thousands of people.
Establishment of the Church
As part of His ministry, Jesus established the Church of Jesus Christ. Mormons believe that Jesus Christ organized His church with apostles and other priesthood leaders to guide and serve His followers. The Church served as a vehicle for teaching gospel principles, administering ordinances such as baptism and the sacrament, and providing support and fellowship to believers.
Atonement and Crucifixion
The Atonement and Crucifixion of Jesus Christ hold significant importance in Mormon theology. Mormons believe that Jesus willingly suffered and died on the cross, taking upon Himself the sins of humanity. Through His sacrifice, Mormons believe that Jesus provided a pathway for all people to find repentance, forgiveness, and ultimately, eternal life. Mormons view the Crucifixion as a pivotal event in the Plan of Salvation and a demonstration of Jesus’ infinite love for mankind.
Post-Mortal and Second Coming
Resurrection and Ascension
After His Crucifixion, Mormons believe that Jesus was resurrected, overcoming death and receiving a perfected, immortal body. His resurrection serves as a testament to His divine power and victory over sin and death. Mormons also believe that following His resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven, where He now sits at the right hand of Heavenly Father, interceding on behalf of His followers.
Role in the Second Coming
Mormons believe in the imminent Second Coming of Jesus Christ, an event in which He will return to Earth in power and glory. Mormons anticipate this event with great anticipation and reverence. They believe that during the Second Coming, Jesus will establish His kingdom on Earth, bringing about a time of peace and righteousness. His return will mark the final judgment and the culmination of God’s plan for humanity.
Millennial Reign
Following the Second Coming, Mormons believe that Jesus will reign on Earth during a thousand-year period called the Millennium. During this time, Jesus will govern with justice, truth, and love, and Satan will be bound, preventing him from deceiving humanity. The Millennium represents a time of peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth, where Jesus Christ will personally guide and bless His people.
Jesus and the Book of Mormon
Prophecies of Jesus
The Book of Mormon, a sacred text believed by Mormons to be another testament of Jesus Christ, contains numerous prophecies concerning Him. It provides additional insights into Jesus’ mission and His dealings with people on the American continents. Mormons consider the Book of Mormon as a companion scripture to the Bible and a valuable resource in understanding Jesus’ teachings and ministry.
Visit to the Americas
According to the Book of Mormon, after His resurrection, Jesus Christ appeared to the people living in the Americas. Mormons believe that during this visit, Jesus taught the gospel, established His Church, and performed miracles among the people. This visit to the Americas underscores Jesus’ global mission and His love for all of God’s children.
The Book of Mormon as Another Testament of Jesus Christ
Mormons believe that the Book of Mormon serves as a witness and testament to the divinity of Jesus Christ. They consider it to be an inspired record that adds clarity and understanding to Jesus’ teachings, ministry, and role as the Savior of the world. Mormons hold the Book of Mormon in high esteem, considering it as scripture alongside the Bible.
Belief in Jesus and Salvation
Faith in Jesus Christ
Mormons place significant emphasis on having faith in Jesus Christ as the foundation of their belief. They believe that true faith encompasses trust, hope, and action. Mormons strive to develop and strengthen their faith in Jesus by studying His teachings, praying, and seeking personal revelation. They believe that through faith, individuals can experience spiritual growth, find peace and direction, and ultimately come closer to Jesus Christ.
Repentance and Baptism
Central to Mormon beliefs is the importance of repentance and baptism. Mormons believe that repentance involves acknowledging and forsaking one’s sins, seeking forgiveness, and making amends. They view baptism as an essential step in the process of repentance and commitment to Jesus Christ. Mormons practice baptism by immersion as a symbolic representation of washing away sins and being spiritually reborn.
Grace, Works, and Salvation
Mormons believe in the combination of God’s grace and their own works as integral to salvation. They believe that Jesus’ Atonement provides the opportunity for forgiveness and salvation, but individuals must also actively strive to live according to God’s commandments and follow the teachings of Jesus. Mormons view works as evidence of their faith and commitment to the Savior, and they understand salvation as an ongoing process that requires continuous effort.
Jesus and Eternal Life
Becoming Like Jesus
Mormons strive to become like Jesus Christ by embodying His teachings and emulating His example. They believe that through sincere effort and reliance on Jesus’ Atonement, they can grow in their capacity to love, serve, and live righteously. Mormons believe that becoming more like Jesus is the ultimate goal of their mortal existence and enables them to fulfill their divine potential.
Eternal Families and Celestial Kingdom
Mormonism places a strong emphasis on the eternal nature of families. Mormons believe that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the sealing power of the priesthood, families can be together for eternity. They view the Celestial Kingdom, the highest degree of heavenly glory, as the place where exalted beings, including Jesus Christ, dwell. Mormons aspire to live in the Celestial Kingdom and be reunited with their loved ones.
Exaltation and Godhood
Mormons believe in the potential for all individuals to attain exaltation, thereby becoming gods and goddesses. Mormons understand exaltation as the highest form of eternal life and the ability to dwell with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ forever. They believe that through obedience to God’s commandments and ordinances, and by receiving all necessary priesthood ordinances, individuals can progress to become like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Jesus as Example and Teacher
Following Jesus’ Teachings
Mormons strive to follow Jesus Christ’s teachings in every aspect of their lives. They seek to model their thoughts, actions, and attitudes after His example, aiming to be kind, compassionate, and loving towards others. Mormons believe that by carefully studying and internalizing the teachings of Jesus, they can gain wisdom, guidance, and strength to navigate life’s challenges and make choices in harmony with God’s will.
Mormon Perspectives on Christlike Attributes
Mormons believe that developing Christlike attributes is fundamental to their spiritual progression. They seek to cultivate qualities such as love, humility, patience, forgiveness, and selflessness. Mormons understand that by developing these attributes, they can better reflect Jesus’ character and serve as a positive influence in their families, communities, and the world.
Jesus in the Temple
The Visit to the Temple
According to the Book of Mormon, Jesus Christ visited the temple in the Americas following His resurrection. During this visit, He taught, blessed, and ministered to the people, emphasizing the importance of faith, repentance, and baptism. His presence in the temple served as a sacred and significant event, reaffirming His divinity and mission as the Savior of all mankind.
Understanding of Jesus’ Identity
Mormons view Jesus’ temple visit as a testament to His role as the Son of God and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. They recognize the importance of the temple as a place of worship, revelation, and personal transformation, symbolizing the union between God and humanity. Mormons find great solace and reassurance in Jesus’ connection to the temple, understanding it as a divine institution of eternal significance.
Jesus and the Restoration
The Role of Joseph Smith
Mormons believe that Joseph Smith, the first prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, played a crucial role in the restoration of Jesus’ teachings and the reestablishment of His Church on Earth. They believe that Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith in a vision, leading to the restoration of priesthood authority and the recovery of lost truths and ordinances. Mormons view Joseph Smith as a prophet chosen by Jesus Christ to bring about the restoration of His gospel in its fullness.
Restoration of Priesthood Authority
Central to the restoration of Jesus Christ’s Church was the reestablishment of priesthood authority. Mormons believe that Joseph Smith was ordained with the authority to act in the name of God, enabling him to perform sacred ordinances and teach gospel principles with divine approval. Through the restoration of priesthood authority, Mormons understand that Jesus Christ’s Church is led by authorized servants who receive revelation and guidance from Him.
Continuing Revelation
Mormons believe in the ongoing nature of revelation. They recognize that Jesus Christ continues to communicate with prophets and leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, providing guidance, instruction, and inspiration. Mormons regard this continuous revelation as evidence of Jesus’ involvement and active role in leading His Church today. They find comfort and reassurance in the knowledge that Jesus Christ’s teachings and guidance are relevant and applicable to their lives in the present day.
In conclusion, according to Mormonism, Jesus Christ is revered as the literal Son of God, a member of the Godhead, and the Savior and Redeemer of humanity. His pre-mortal existence, earthly ministry, post-mortal and second coming, and his role in the Book of Mormon and the restoration of Jesus’ teachings are all central to Mormon beliefs. Belief in Jesus, repentance, baptism, and the cultivation of Christlike attributes are essential to salvation and eternal life. Mormons strive to follow Jesus’ teachings, understanding His role as the Son of God and the source of guidance, inspiration, and hope in their lives.