05-07-2008, 08:44 PM
I have found a leaflet that I picked up at a christian bookstore that gives a brief overview of the beliefs and backgrounds of some of the major cults and religions. I thought I would share them with you all. As you can see this first thread is on Mormons.
Founder
Founded by Joseph Smith, Jr. in 1830 in New York. In 1844 there was a split in the group. The LDS church has its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Reorganized LDS church is headquartered in Missouri.
Writings
The main writings of the group are the Bible (selected portions or Smith’s version); The Book of Mormon; Doctrine and Covenants; Pearl of Great Price; and teachings of the Mormon prophets.
Who is God?
God was once a man, but became God. He has a physical body, as does his wife (Heavenly Mother). No Trinity. Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three separate gods. Other gods exist also.
Who is Jesus?
Jesus is a separate god from the Father (Elohim). He was created as a spirit child by the Father and Mother in Heaven, and is the “elder brother” of all men and spirit beings. His body was created through sexual union between Elohim and Mary. Jesus was married. His death on the cross does not provide full atonement for all sin, but does provide everyone with resurrection.
Who is the Holy Spirit?
Holy Ghost is a separate god. Holy Spirit is God’s influence
How to be saved.
Resurrected by grace, but saved (exalted to godhood) by works, including faith in church leaders, Mormon baptism, tithing, ordination, marriage, and temple rituals. No salvation outside of Mormon church.
What happens after death?
Eventually nearly everyone goes to one of the three levels of Heaven. Apostates and murders go to “outer darkness.”
Other beliefs or practices.
No alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tea. Baptism on behalf of the dead. Two-year missionary commitment encouraged. Door-to-door evangelism. Secret rituals in the temple seen only by members in good standing. Belief that only humans may become gods. Extensive social network. Black African-Americans recently granted full access to Mormon church.
Mormons (Latter-Day Saints)
Founder
Founded by Joseph Smith, Jr. in 1830 in New York. In 1844 there was a split in the group. The LDS church has its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Reorganized LDS church is headquartered in Missouri.
Writings
The main writings of the group are the Bible (selected portions or Smith’s version); The Book of Mormon; Doctrine and Covenants; Pearl of Great Price; and teachings of the Mormon prophets.
Who is God?
God was once a man, but became God. He has a physical body, as does his wife (Heavenly Mother). No Trinity. Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three separate gods. Other gods exist also.
Who is Jesus?
Jesus is a separate god from the Father (Elohim). He was created as a spirit child by the Father and Mother in Heaven, and is the “elder brother” of all men and spirit beings. His body was created through sexual union between Elohim and Mary. Jesus was married. His death on the cross does not provide full atonement for all sin, but does provide everyone with resurrection.
Who is the Holy Spirit?
Holy Ghost is a separate god. Holy Spirit is God’s influence
How to be saved.
Resurrected by grace, but saved (exalted to godhood) by works, including faith in church leaders, Mormon baptism, tithing, ordination, marriage, and temple rituals. No salvation outside of Mormon church.
What happens after death?
Eventually nearly everyone goes to one of the three levels of Heaven. Apostates and murders go to “outer darkness.”
Other beliefs or practices.
No alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tea. Baptism on behalf of the dead. Two-year missionary commitment encouraged. Door-to-door evangelism. Secret rituals in the temple seen only by members in good standing. Belief that only humans may become gods. Extensive social network. Black African-Americans recently granted full access to Mormon church.