Fact Check: Mormons believe in Jesus

Fact-Check: "Mormons believe in Jesus"

What We Know

Mormons, officially known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), indeed believe in Jesus Christ. Their theology is rooted in the belief that Jesus is the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. According to the Church's official newsroom, Latter-day Saints affirm that Jesus is the Only Begotten Son of God, who was born of the Virgin Mary and performed miracles during His earthly ministry. They also believe in His death and resurrection, which they see as central to their faith and salvation.

The foundational text of Mormonism, the Book of Mormon, also emphasizes Jesus Christ's role. It narrates events where Jesus visits the Americas after His resurrection, teaching the people there about His gospel (Wikipedia). This text is considered by Mormons to be another testament of Jesus Christ, alongside the Bible.

Moreover, a 2001 address by Robert L. Millet, a former dean of religious education at Brigham Young University, outlines that Latter-day Saints view Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and as central to their doctrine and worship. They accept the accounts of His life as historical and truthful, although they do not consider the Bible to be inerrant.

Analysis

While Mormons do believe in Jesus Christ, some significant theological differences exist between mainstream Christianity and Mormonism. For instance, the concept of the Godhead in Mormonism differs from the traditional Christian understanding of the Trinity. Mormons believe that God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three distinct beings, which contrasts with the orthodox Christian view of the Trinity as one essence in three persons (The Gospel Coalition, Understanding Mormonism).

Critics argue that these differences mean that the Jesus of Mormonism is not the same as the Jesus of traditional Christianity. For example, some sources point out that while Mormons worship Jesus, their understanding of His nature and role diverges significantly from that of mainstream Christian denominations (Mormon Truths, Equip).

However, the LDS Church maintains that their beliefs about Jesus Christ are consistent with Christian doctrine, asserting that they are Christians based on their worship practices and relationship to Christ (The Gospel Coalition, Mormon Beliefs).

The sources used in this analysis vary in their perspectives. Official church resources, such as the LDS Church newsroom, present a positive view of their beliefs, while other sources like Equip and Mormon Truths provide critical perspectives on the differences between Mormon and traditional Christian beliefs. This diversity in sources reflects the complexity of the claim and the differing interpretations of what it means to "believe in Jesus."

Conclusion

The claim that "Mormons believe in Jesus" is True. Members of the LDS Church affirm their belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. They incorporate this belief into their theology, worship, and practices. However, it is essential to recognize that their understanding of Jesus differs in significant ways from traditional Christian beliefs, particularly regarding the nature of the Godhead and the interpretation of scriptural texts. Despite these differences, the foundational belief in Jesus Christ remains a core tenet of Mormon faith.

Sources

1. Mormonism - Wikipedia
2. What Do Mormons Believe About Jesus? - The Gospel Coalition
3. What Latter-day Saints Believe About Jesus Christ
4. The Jesus of Mormonism: Differences That Make a Difference
5. Who is Jesus Christ? - Mormon Beliefs
6. What do Mormons believe about Jesus? - Mormon Truths
7. Jesus Christ in Mormonism