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Understanding the Most Widely Accepted Beliefs About the Mormon Church

March 10, 2025Technology2117
Understanding the Most Widely Accepted Beliefs About the Mormon Church

Understanding the Most Widely Accepted Beliefs About the Mormon Church

For many outside of the Mormon Church, it's a commonly held belief that the Mormon faith is unique and perhaps even 'batshit crazy'. However, it's also true that there are certain widely accepted beliefs that are shared and practiced by the majority of its members. Let's explore what those beliefs are and why they are so deeply ingrained in the Mormon community.

Faith in the Church of Jesus Christ

One of the most widely accepted beliefs in the Mormon Church is the formal declaration that it is the 'Church of Jesus Christ'. This is a fundamental belief that sets it apart from other Christian denominations. Mormons believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of mankind, and they are dedicated to serving and following His teachings. This belief is reinforced through weekly meetings and teachings in which members study the Bible and the Book of Mormon together.

Another belief is the concept of a "Mormon Glow," where members are often seen as happier and more fulfilled. A 2015 survey conducted by Brigham Young University found that Latter-day Saints (LDS) are happier than the general American population, with 92% of LDS members reporting at least one positive emotion in the past day, compared to just 73% of non-LDS participants. This happiness is attributed to the strong sense of community, family values, and the emphasis on personal growth and spiritual fulfillment within the Church.

Family Values and Economic Functioning

Families are a cornerstone of the Mormon Church. Nearly half of all Mormon men and women participate in extended family councils where they discuss family goals and biblical principles. As a result, Mormons are known to have larger families on average than the general population. This belief in strong family structures is not just personal; Mormons also see families as vital for the functioning of economies. By prioritizing marriage, children, and extended family networks, Mormons aim to create stable and supportive communities.

The belief in following Jesus Christ, though, brings about a nuanced challenge. While many Mormons agree on the core teachings and importance of Jesus Christ, there is often a divergence in how His teachings are interpreted and implemented in daily life. For example, different denominations or sects of Christianity may have varying opinions on practices like baptism or communal ownership of property. This highlights the internal diversity within the Mormon Church, even as it maintains a collective belief in Jesus Christ's teachings.

Scriptures and Religious Texts

A significant part of the beliefs of the Mormon Church is the acceptance and reverence for both the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The KJV is held as a fundamental text for Christian teachings, while the Book of Mormon is seen as a sacred scripture that provides additional insight into the word of God. Many Mormons believe that the Book of Mormon contains the restored word of God and sheds light on the mysteries of the gospel.

True Belief and the LDS Church

Another widely accepted belief within the Mormon Church is that the LDS Church is the only 'true' church on the face of the earth. This belief is rooted in the restoration of the gospel, which Mormons believe was lost after the death of the original apostles. Many believers see the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the only organization that has been 'corrected' by divine intervention to lead people back to God.

This belief is not without controversy, as many outside the Church see it as exclusive. However, for those within it, the belief that the LDS Church is the 'only true church' is a cornerstone of their faith. This belief is reinforced by the Church's teachings on its history and the role of prophets and apostles in leading the Church.

In conclusion, while it's true that the Mormon Church is unique and often viewed as 'batshit crazy' by outsiders, it's also important to recognize the deeply held beliefs that unite its members. From the Church of Jesus Christ declaration to the emphasis on family values, the collective belief in Jesus Christ, and the acceptance of the KJV and the Book of Mormon, these are the widely accepted beliefs that shape the Mormon way of life.