INTRODUCTION
We have the greatest respect for the members of the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter Day Saints. Mormons are known for their honesty and devotion to
family. They are industrious, honest, quiet, non-drinkers and pleasant to
deal with. One could not ask for a better neighbor than a Mormon!
The Mormon faith considers the Bible a Holy Book. Using that as common
ground, we will show why, according to the Bible, their particular religion
did not originate with God.
In his letter to the church at Galatia Paul wrote:
Galatians 1:6-9 (KJV used throughout)
I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into
the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be
some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though
we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that
which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so
say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye
have received, let him be accursed.
There are several differences between the gospel of Christ and Mormon
teachings. This concerns us and makes us question who was really the author
of the Book of Mormon.
KEEP THE FAITH
There are quite a few verses throughout the New Testament that admonish
followers to not change anything in the Bible, to “keep the faith,” and to
maintain Scripture as delivered. We have been warned there will be ungodly
men who want to add, change or delete from what has been written. Here are
three of the many verses that admonish future writers to not change
anything. [emphasis added]
Jude 1:3-4
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common
salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that
ye should earnestly contend for the faith which
was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in
unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men,
turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord
God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Rev 1:3
Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this
prophecy, and keep those things which are written
therein
for the time is at hand.
Titus 1:9
(A bishop is responsible for) Holding fast the
faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound
doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
We read statements throughout the New Testament that there should be no
changes to the text already delivered. (See ‘KEEP THE ORDINANCES’ under
‘Special Topics’ on this website.) In Galatians 1:6-9 (above) Paul notices
that some members of the church at Galatia are leaning towards a completely
new gospel. He cautions them that even if an apostle or an angel from heaven
preaches any other gospel than what they already have he is to be accursed!
In spite of such a clear warning, altered gospels have been offered by
counterfeit angels and accepted by millions!
2 Cor 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming
themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is
transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his
ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end
shall be according to their works.
The apostle Paul warned the Corinthians - and us, by the way - that Satan is
devious and capable of seeming righteous, while turning himself into an
angel of light. If that is possible, and we have no doubt it is, then the
messages provided by the angel Moroni needs to be carefully examined (more
to come on him in the following paragraphs).
1 John 1:3
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have
fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with
his Son Jesus Christ.
The criteria for legitimate “God Breathed” New Testament Scripture, called
for the writings by an apostle or the student of an apostle, which, after AD
100, is no longer possible. Acts 1:21-22 specifies, when voting for a
replacement apostle, he must have traveled with Christ from his baptism to
his resurrection. Thus, if anyone were to come along and offer a seemingly
God-inspired book, we can reject it because the existing Bible is complete
and self-protecting. There has been no one alive since the first century who
traveled with Christ, and therefore subsequent books with new gospels cannot
be from God.
Note: The only exception would be Paul. He was not voted in but Jesus Christ
personally selected Saul/Paul (Galatians 1:1). With his exceptional talents
(Roman citizen; spoke several languages, including Greek; educated as a
Pharisee) he was a useful addition. His legitimate apostleship was further
confirmed by the Apostle Luke when he recorded Paul’s activities in the Book
of Acts.
To enjoy fellowship with those in the kingdom of God one must read and obey
that which has been declared in Holy Scripture. Accepting false gospels
prevents fellowship with God!
DIABOLICAL DIGRESSION
Di’a’bol’i’cal (adj.) 1. of devil; connected with the devil or devil
worship; 2. Evil; extremely cruel or evil.
Anything leading souls away from salvation is of the devil, the Prince of
Confusion, The Father of Lies! He walks the earth, as a roaring lion,
searching for whom he may devour! We need to be aware of what we are reading
lest we are led astray!
MORMONS AND THE ANGEL MORONI
In the 19th Century, Joseph Smith claimed the angel Moroni gave him a
different gospel. Paul warned us about this. Unfortunately, Smith was less
interested in the Bible than he was in impressing his friends.
As you may know, Joseph Smith was founder and prophet of the Latter Day
Saint movement in the 1820s. In 1823 Smith said an angel directed him to a
buried book written on golden plates containing the religious history of an
ancient people. Smith published what he said was a translation of these
plates in March 1830 as the Book of Mormon. It was named after Mormon, the
ancient prophet-historian who compiled the original story inscribed on the
golden plates.
Smith announced the founding of a restored Christian church and proclaimed
himself a "seer, who is a Translator, a Prophet, an Apostle of Jesus Christ
and Elder of the Church." Quite a heady statement! We are cautioned when we
remember Jim Jones and his 906 followers who blindly drank the Kool-Aid in
Jonestown. They too followed a self-proclaimed prophet.
(On November 18, 1978 over 900 Americans died in Jonestown, Guyana from
apparent cyanide poisoning, after drinking Kool-Aid prepared at the
instruction of their cult leader, Jim Jones.)
Mormons believe a different gospel! They believe Peter, James, John, and
John the Baptist and others appeared to Joseph Smith in the form of angels
and bestowed various priesthood authorities on him. Mormons believe that
their church is the "only true and living church" because of the divine
authority restored through Smith.
Smith taught several erroneous doctrines. Mormons believe in a pre-mortal
existence where people were literal spirit children of God, and that God
presented a plan that would allow his children to progress and become more
like Him. The plan involved the spirits receiving bodies on earth and going
through trials in order to learn, progress, and receive a "fullness of joy"
This pre-mortal existence fails when compared with God’s Word:
Genesis 3:19
In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the
ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust
shalt thou return.
God tells us we came from dust, Smith tells us we existed before that. As
for me and my house, we will believe the Lord.
THIS CHURCH IS TRUE
If the Mormon Church can get you to say, “This church is true,” then
EVERYTHING they tell you has to also be true. It is as simple as that. If
you say this church is true, you will also believe what they say about the
various subjects that are different in the Mormon religion from the Bible
accounts. Below we will review several topics, including how many gods there
are, what they say about polygamy, baptism for the dead, and my favorite –
feelings.
How the Book of Mormon Differs From the Bible
Galatians 1:6-9 states that if anyone preaches any other gospel he must be
accursed! When we mention this to Mormon Elders they point out that the Book
of Mormon agrees in every respect with the Bible.
If that is true, we welcome their teachings. On the other hand, if there are
discrepancies, we condemn their teachings for misleading their millions of
followers!
Young Missionaries
A significant event in the life of Mormons is the two-year mission. Most are
men about 20 years old who devote two years preaching their version of the
gospel of Jesus Christ. When two such young men came to my door. I invited
them in and noticed they each had a nametag with the title, “Elder.” “Elder
Jones” and “Elder Smith” talked to me for a while and I asked them how their
wives were. The laughed and said they were not married. I then quoted Titus
1:5-6 which tells us an elder should be married to one wife (not divorced)
with faithful children, among other things. They pointed out that “Elder”
was just a title they use.
“Elder” is not “just a title, but a position of great responsibility. The
Bible calls for an older, experienced man (with children old enough to be
members themselves), experienced in Scripture to be able to lead others.
Young, single men 18 to 20 years old hardly qualify as elders.
The Mormon teaching that “Elder” is “just a title” contradicts the Bible
which outlines how “Elder” is a man qualified to teach the gospel of Jesus
Christ.
Moving on, we examine some of the doctrines introduced by Mormonism.
Prior Life
Mormons teach we lived in heaven before our earthly birth.
They cite Jer 1:4-5
“Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Before I formed thee in the
belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified
thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.”
These verses are not evidence of a kingdom in heaven with people preparing
to live on earth. Many fathers have plans for their sons long before they
are born, often to play a favorite sport or to take over a family business,
ex. Carpenter & Son. Earthly fathers have no powers to guarantee their goals
but, our Heavenly Father did see that His plans for Jeremiah came to
fruition.
The doctrine of a previous existence does not agree with…
1 Cor 15:45-47
And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last
Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is
spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.
The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from
heaven.
If the Mormon version is true why does it not say, “The first man is from
heaven, as is the second?”
Paul tells us the first body was natural (from dust) and afterward (after
the resurrection) it is a spiritual body. Nothing is said about a
pre-earthly existence or the natural body being used in heaven. It doesn’t
say, “First there was a spiritual body, then a natural and afterward a
spiritual.”
There is evidence of the earthly body and soul coming together for the first
time here on earth.
Gen 2:7
And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his
nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.
Became: verb intransitive: to come to be. It doesn’t indicate a change or
transfer but a beginning.
Gen 3:19
In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the
ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust
shalt thou return.
“Return unto the ground” tells me we originated in the dust. I don’t see any
convincing evidence we were alive as souls in heaven before our physical
birth.
Why was the Fall necessary?
One of the Mormon teachings involves the “Fall” (Adam and Eve’s first sin).
They tell us the Fall was necessary so mankind would know the fullness of
joy and produce offspring to populate the earth. This would provide the
opportunity for them to know good, and enjoy the reward for putting forth
effort to accomplish a goal. They cite 2 Nephi 2:14-26 as their authority.
We are specifically interested in verse 22-23:
22 And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen,
but he would have remained in the garden of Eden. And all things
which were created must have remained in the same state in which they were
after they were created; and they must have remained forever, and had no
end. 23 And they would have had no children; wherefore they would
have remained in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no
misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin. [emphasis added]
According to v22-23 if there had been no fall mankind would have remained in
the Garden of Eden, they would have had no children, no joy or misery, doing
no good and no sin. However this conflicts with:
Gen 1:27-28
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him;
male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto
them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue
it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the
air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. [emphasis
added]
Notice in the very first chapter of Genesis they were told to populate the
earth BEFORE the fall. Also, they were not restricted to the Garden of Eden
but told they would have dominion over every living thing on the earth.
Examples of man having dominion over living things are farmers raising
cattle, pigs and chickens for food, and horses and donkeys as beasts of
burden. All this was ordained by God 5000 years ago.
The Mormon teaching that man was to remain in the Garden of Eden (before the
fall) contradicts the Bible which states in the very first chapter that man
would populate the earth.
Jesus Visits South America
The Book of Mormon teaches that Christ visited America after his death and
resurrection. He had announced his travels in John 10:16 when he told them
he would visit “other sheep.”
The Aztecs have a tradition of a god visiting them, leaving and promising to
come back. It is believed he was a feathered serpent who arrived around 900
B.C. They named him Quetzalcoatl.
Because the Book of Mormon teaches that Jesus visited the American natives
after his resurrection, Mormon scholars seized this legend and teach that
Quetzalcoatl’s return, now as a white, bearded God, was actually Jesus
Christ. (We know Jesus was a Jew, having light brown skin and black hair.
Yet, for some reason, the Mormons depict him as a blond, blue-eyed white
man.)
However, Holy Scripture reveals Christ, after his death, had work to do here
on earth, and then went directly to heaven. He first walked among the people
for forty days (Acts 1), after which he went directly to heaven and is
sitting at the right hand of God (Acts 2:33-34; 7:55-56). Thus, there was no
time during which he could have traveled to the Americas.
The “other sheep” referred to are the gentiles of the world, not just of
America. Jn 10:16 reads: And other sheep I have, which are not of this
fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall
be one fold, and one shepherd.
He came to save the world, not just the Jews. To do that he needed to open
his kingdom to the gentiles. He first offered the kingdom to the Jews, who
turned him down. The door was then opened to others when the first gentile,
Cornelius, became a Christian in Acts 10.
That Jesus traveled post resurrection is a popular myth which encourages
mystery. Often referred to as the “missing 40 days” there is wild
speculation about his “post resurrection” travels. Some say he went to
India. Mormons claim he went to South America. During his lifetime there was
no opportunity for his personal travel outside of Israel. After his
resurrection he was in Israel for forty days, seen by about 500 people, then
he went directly to heaven. So it appears there was no travel to South
America.
Rather than visiting his “other sheep” in South America we offer a better
explanation. The Jews, being religious, recognized only two kinds of people:
Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews). You were either a member of God’s chosen
people or you were not.
Where he talks about “sheep of this fold” he means those who are members of
the Chosen people. The Jews had the first chance to hear his message.
Sheep of the other fold are the Gentiles. He must bring them into the fold
of believers. Christ came to save the world, not just the Jewish nation. The
way to salvation must be open to all.
In Acts 10 the first Gentile was converted. Eventually Christ planned on one
church with everyone in agreement (One Lord, one faith, one baptism. Eph
4:5). I consider myself one of those that heard his voice, have entered his
fold of believers, had my sins washed away and am now in his kingdom.
Some Mormon scholars believe that Quetzalcoatl, as a white, bearded God who
came from the sky and promised to return, was actually Jesus Christ.
According to the Book of Mormon, Jesus visited the American natives after
his resurrection. However the legend of Quetzalcoatl began around 900 BC. To
manipulate the events to show he traveled shortly after his death fails to
consider the original visit was long Before Christ.
We conclude any story involving Jesus visiting “other sheep” outside of
Israel is a fabrication, and not worthy of serious consideration.
Questionable Writing
The Book of Mormon teaches that Christ visited America after his
resurrection. He had announced his travels in John 10:16 when he told them
he would visit “other sheep.” The book of Third Nephi states:
10. Behold, I am Jesus Christ, whom the prophets testified shall come into
the world. ... 12. And it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these
words the whole multitude fell to the earth; for they remembered that it had
been prophesied among them that Christ should show himself unto them after
his ascension into heaven. ... 14. Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may
thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the
nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of
Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of
the world.
We have several questions about this conversation:
These are the words Jesus spoke to a skeptical Thomas to prove who he was
(John 20:27). Was the author plagiarizing to convince readers this is a holy
book?
Certainly the Aztecs had no foreknowledge of nail prints in his hands or
feet. They didn’t even know what or where Israel was nor the need for
someone to be slain for the sins of the world. These are the words of
someone who is familiar with the Bible and expects his readers to know and
agree with the sentiment. This is a clever ruse to place the reader in the
position of agreeing with the Book of Mormon. But these are not the words
Jesus would speak to people unfamiliar with Jewish history.
Why did he announce his name first? Where is the evidence of any prophet
announcing the coming of Christ to the Aztecs? If this were Jesus,
announcing his name in this way would have been contrary to his usual
method. In the gospels, he asked them to tell who he is, not the other way
around.
Matthew 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Mark 8:27 And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea
Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do
men say that I am?
Mark 8:29 And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter
answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.
It was not like Jesus to announce who he was. He performed miracles, gave
God all the credit and expected believers to see what he could do, and
recognize his relationship with God based on Old Testament prophecy. He did
not proudly announce his identity at the outset.
Old English in New America
By using Old English terms, similar to the King James Version of the Bible,
the text seems designed to convince readers this is a book from God. We
suggest the author of the Book of Mormon was Joseph Smith - not God, not an
angel of God, not Jesus or any of his apostles.
This book is a poor counterfeit contrived to fool the unwary. Most people
are not that familiar with the Bible and can be easily influenced by Old
English terminology. Old English was not used in North America in the 1800s.
It was used in 1620 in the King James Version and was copied into the Book
of Mormon.
For an example of modern English as used in daily newspapers in the
mid-1800s see:
http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn83025917/1845-12-09/ed-1/
What is the spirit world? What happens there?
Ecclesiastes 9:5
For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything,
neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.
Here we see the real disposition of those who pass on – they are asleep,
knowing nothing, awaiting the return of Christ to take his kingdom to
heaven. But the Book of Mormon tells it differently.
Alma 40:11-14
11 Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the
resurrection—Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that the
spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea,
the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that
God who gave them life. 12 And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits
of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is
called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest
from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow. 13 And then shall it
come to pass, that the spirits of the wicked, yea, who are evil—for behold,
they have no part nor portion of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they
chose evil works rather than good; therefore the spirit of the devil did
enter into them, and take possession of their house—and these shall be cast
out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing
of teeth, and this because of their own iniquity, being led captive by the
will of the devil. 14 Now this is the state of the souls of the wicked, yea,
in darkness, and a state of awful, fearful looking for the fiery indignation
of the wrath of God upon them; thus they remain in this state, as well as
the righteous in paradise, until the time of their resurrection.
Always wanting sinners to repent, the gospel is preached to those who are
alive and need it the most. The Mormon teaching that Jesus visited the
deceased contradicts Holy Scripture which emphasizes righteousness is
preached to those who are dead to the gospel (alive but unbelievers).
Perhaps Smith was confused by the verses that advocated preaching to the
dead. However we note that the phrase “dead” has two meanings. Initially we
think of those who have passed on. But often the “dead” are those who have
not accepted Christ as the Messiah. They are “dead” to the gospel. Or, as
someone might say, “You are dead to me!” Preaching to the dead (unbelievers)
is the best use of the gospel. Conversion of unbelievers is always the goal.
In this case the gospel was preached to the dead (living but unbelievers) so
they would convert and live in the spirit, according to the wishes of God.
Here are some verses that show “dead” is not always for those who passed on.
[emphasis added]
Romans 6:2
God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer
therein?
Romans 7:4a
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the
body of Christ;
Ephesians 2:1
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
1 Peter 4:6
For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead,
that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, ,but live,
according to God in the spirit.
Note: 1 Peter 4 discusses living sinners, those who “walked in
lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and
abominable idolatries”
Gal 2:17-19
But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found
sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build
again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I
through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
Eph. 2:1
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
Eph. 2:4-5
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with
Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
Col. 2:13
And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your
flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all
trespasses
As we mentioned above, preaching to the dead (unbelievers) is the best use
of the gospel. Conversion of unbelievers is always the goal. In this case
the gospel was preached to the dead (living but unbelievers) so they would
convert and live in the spirit, according to the wishes of God. To teach
that the gospel was preached to those who have physically died is misleading
and disingenuous. We have to ask, who would do such a thing? A godly
prophet? An apostle? A disciple of Jesus? The Father of Lies?
What does it mean to be resurrected?
Who will be resurrected?
Why is resurrection important?
Mormons teach that the earthly body will be restored and the soul will be
joined again with that body for eternity. [emphasis added]
2 Nephi 9:13
O how great the plan of our God! For on the other hand, the paradise of God
must deliver up the spirits of the righteous, and the grave deliver up the
body of the righteous; and the spirit and the body is restored to itself
again, and all men become incorruptible, and immortal, and they are
living souls, having a perfect knowledge like unto us in the flesh, save it
be that our knowledge shall be perfect.
Alma 11:44-45
44 Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond
and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous; and even
there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but everything
shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body,
and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and
God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is one Eternal God, to be judged
according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil.
45 Now, behold, I have spoken unto you concerning the death of the mortal
body, and also concerning the resurrection of the mortal body. I say unto
you that this mortal body is raised to an immortal body, that is from
death, even from the first death unto life, that they can die no more; their
spirits uniting with their bodies, never to be divided; thus the whole
becoming spiritual and immortal, that they can no more see corruption.
According to the Biblical account, resurrection is defined as being brought
back to life, reborn if you will, with an immortal body (not your earthly
one). Only the righteous will be restored. Then comes the judgment for the
others.
We know the human body cannot exist in outer space. Nor will it be able to
exist in heaven, a spiritual realm far different from earth. That is why we
need a new, spiritual, body.
According to Alma 11:42-45 the body will be restored, every limb and joint
as they were from the start of our mortal life. This restoration will come
to all – the good and the evil – with not a hair of their heads being lost.
However, according to 1 Cor 15:35-44, God gives a new body. The soul will
assume a spiritual body.
Gen 3:19
In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the
ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust
shalt thou return.
God’s Word is so clear – from dust you were, to dust you will return.
1 Cor 15:50
Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of
God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
We learn from this that the sinful natural body cannot enter heaven; there
must be a new, spiritual, body without stain or blemish! Fortunately, our
Heavenly Father provides us with one! Thank God or we would be stranded!
Remember, the Book of Mormon is supposed to teach the same gospel as the
Bible. The Book of Mormon claims we will regenerate our natural bodies prior
to entrance into heaven; this contradicts the Bible which says we will be
given a new, spiritual body.
Levels in Heaven
Mormons teach there are different levels in heaven. They cite:
1 Cor 15:40-43
40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of
the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There
is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of
the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is
the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in
incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown
in weakness; it is raised in power:
As discussed above, the bodies are those of the people in heaven. It is not
talking about celestial/terrestrial places but bodies. Apparently someone
(Smith? Moroni? Latter Day Prophets?) misunderstands what Paul was writing
about.
We can better understand when we read the preceding verses:
1 Cor 15:35-39
35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do
they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it
die: 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be,
but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God
giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39
All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men,
another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
Verses 40-49 tell us there are earthly, natural bodies and heavenly bodies.
Then, v50, is clear in that natural flesh and blood cannot enter heaven.
1 Cor 15:50
Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of
God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
Clearly Paul is discussing how the dead are raised up. He points out that
there are different kinds of flesh (beast vs fish, etc.) just as there are
heavenly (spiritual) bodies and earthly (human) bodies. And natural bodies
are corrupt and we need a new body qualified to enter the presence of a
sinless God.
Not to mention, human bodies would be unable to survive in the heavenly
environment. The ethereal conditions would be lethal to a natural body.
Where was Jesus born?
The Book of Mormon says Jerusalem.
Alma 7:10
And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our
forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be
overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a
son, yea, even the Son of God.
The Bible says Bethlehem.
Micah 5:2
But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands
of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in
Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.
Mt 2:1
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod
the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
Perhaps this discrepancy is due to the fact that in the late 1820’s the
celebration and knowledge of Christmas was not as universal as it is today,
so it is possible Joseph Smith was confused when the wise men visited
Jerusalem. But that would indicate Smith was not inspired by the Holy Ghost
when he wrote “Jerusalem!” Or perhaps the Angel Moroni was confused when he
helped Smith translate the book into English?
If the Book of Mormon says Jesus was born in Jerusalem and the Bible says he
was born in Bethlehem, can we still say the Book of Mormon agrees with the
Bible?
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than
that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints tell us the Book
of Mormon doesn’t preach another gospel, therefore Paul’s warning does not
apply. I suggest their lack of serious Bible study results in their missing
numerous inconsistencies.
There is another explanation for why they cannot see these inconsistencies.
Often people are so attuned to their own long-held opinions that they cannot
comprehend an alternative because it would mean all they have worked for and
believed in was in vain. Few people are so open minded that they can accept
being wrong in their religious thinking.
Feelings are Paramount
Mormons believe feelings are paramount. “We feel good when we read the
Book of Mormon, therefore it is true.” The Mormons 4th of 14 Articles of
Belief concerns feelings: (emphasis added)
“We believe we know the truth by our feelings. We do not rely on and we
will disregard any facts that contradict what our feelings tell us is true.
If something feels bad, like someone telling us that Joseph Smith was a
fraud, then we know that Smith must have been a prophet since falsehoods
create bad feelings and it feels bad when someone tells us that we have been
duped. In other words, if we get a bad feeling we are hearing bad things
which must be lies. We feel good when we read the Book of Mormon, therefore
it is true.
Archeology, genetics, science, metallurgy, agriculture and animal studies
are irrelevant since our feelings tell us it is a true book revealed by God.
This good feeling applies to all aspects of our lives. We determine if we
should do something or know the truth of something if we have prayed about
it and have a good feeling about it.”
In other words, science, agriculture and animal studies are facts. Facts are
irrelevant since feelings take precedence.
I cannot begin to understand how reasonably intelligent people can actually
believe this.
This is an insidious and clever devil’s lie! He lies to you then convinces
you that anyone telling the truth is lying and not to be believed. He is
indeed the recognized king of liars.
We are diametrically opposed to this belief. Many people in other religions,
as well as atheists, feel good about what they do. Do they all have the
"truth" because they feel good about what they do?
Mormons, be aware, if anything here makes you feel bad, remember the 4th of
the 14 Articles of Beliefs. If you have been duped and someone tells you
that you have been duped you will feel bad. This bad feeling tells you the
person is lying and you have not been duped.
In the same vein, if I tell you your house is on fire that would make you
feel bad so you should ignore what I have to say and remain seated and
continue with what you were doing.
Feelings are what get a lot of people in trouble. From the hippie mantra of
the 1960s, “If it feels good, do it” we learned drugs and free sex are not
beneficial to a civilized society. The Bible tells us our personal feelings
and desires are to be placed secondary to what God wants.
The concept of truth being determined by feelings is one of the 14
fundamental beliefs of Mormons. Also among them we find:
- God was once a man who lived on another planet
- We are co-eternal with God
- Jesus was begotten by physical union of God and Mary
- By being Mormons we are assured of salvation - even if we are wrong
All fourteen can be seen at:
http://exmormon.org/d6/drupal/fourteen
Baptism for the Dead
Mormons also believe in baptism for the dead. They believe that those who
have died are now being taught the truth in the spirit world. These
“classes” teach, among other things, that baptism is essential for
salvation. But since baptism is an earthly ordinance the departed do not
have access to it and, now knowing the truth, feel frustrated not being able
to be baptized. But help is available! Living Mormons believe they can be
baptized for those poor discouraged departed. They teach that as Christ died
as a proxy for us, Mormons can be baptized as a proxy for others.
Is Baptism for the dead is taught in 1 Cor 15:29?
Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise
not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?
A careful examination of the verses preceding this one shows Paul was using
this as an example, not for baptism of the dead, but to prove that others
also believe in the resurrection of the dead.
Some baseball players cross themselves just prior to batting. If we wanted
to prove the cross of Christ existed we might point to them and say, “Why
else would they do that if the cross didn’t exist?” We are not saying the
act of crossing oneself is important, only that the people doing it also
believe Jesus died on the cross, as we do!
Similarly, in Paul’s day there were some who were baptized for the dead.
Paul was not saying baptism for the dead was important, only that these
people also believed that the dead were resurrected. Why else would they do
that if they didn’t believe in the resurrection?
The Bible does teach that baptism is essential for salvation. However, it
also teaches that a person must repent of their sins and confess Christ in
public before they can have their sins washed away.
Further, it is appointed to men to die and after death is the judgment
(Hebrews 9:27). Mormons would like it to say, “It is appointed to men to die
and after death is a period of self-adjustment followed by the judgment.”
But that is not what the Bible says!
Once you die, there will be no more opportunities. Solomon makes this clear
in Eccl. 9:10: "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for
there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave,
whither thou goest."
This next paragraph won't make the Mormons feel good but we ask them to use
some common sense and logic in determining whether God would allow a class
in redemption when there is no way for some of the students to obtain
salvation. As much as they try the Mormons will not get baptized for
everyone. They will miss at least one, if not thousands or millions (what
about 3 billion Chinese?). Billions will die, go to class, accept the
teachings but never got baptized. What happens then? Why have the class at
all?
The Bible makes no mention of a period of schooling after death. Anyone who
teaches that you can put off repenting, and confessing your sins until after
death is jeopardizing your salvation. Such a doctrine could only come from
the Father of Lies!
I can imagine the Devil, the originator of this doctrine, is enjoying a good
laugh at the expense of these foolish mortals!
Polygamy
Another erroneous Mormon doctrine encourages polygamy. This is contrary to
Jesus’ teaching that men are to remain with one wife for the rest of their
lives. We read that adultery is the only acceptable reason for a Christian
to divorce their spouse and be eligible to remarry. Jewish men had one wife
and adultery was a serious violation of God’s Law, such that stoning to
death was the penalty. During the Christian dispensation, we don’t stone
people, but allow the innocent one to separate themselves from the filth of
adultery with divorce.
The Mormons have a solution for that problem. They simply allow men to marry
and marry and marry. No divorce involved! And since you are “married” to the
woman you cannot be guilty of adultery.
If you believe an angel from heaven authorized Joseph Smith, then you also
have to believe this strange doctrine was sanctioned as part of the
“restored gospel of Jesus Christ.” We feel compelled to warn them that God
will not be mocked. A man will reap what he sows (Gal 6:7).
As the result of intense public pressure, polygamy has been (publicly)
cancelled and is no longer official policy. Nevertheless, many Mormons still
practice polygamy, principally in Utah (Where Mormonism is universally
practiced, from the farm to the statehouse.).
We are reminded of Jesus defending his view to the Pharisees. He refused to
back down because he had the truth. Where polygamy was concerned, the
Mormons did not have the truth and vacillated.
Eternal Marriage
Smith also taught that men would be reunited with their wives and live for
eternity in heaven. This is the opposite of what the Jesus said (Mk
12:18-27), that there is no marriage in heaven.
The Mormon explanation for this apparent discrepancy is that Bible
translators left out the part where God's plan changes and marriage is now
allowed in heaven.
How Many Gods
The Bible teaches there is one God. Joseph Smith taught there are many gods
and we will become gods ourselves. This appeals to the pride of man, that he
will become exalted and godlike. For those who believe, this goal is worthy
of strong and earnest support! But it is far from the truth!
We can understand how leaders of the Mormon Church would cling to their
beliefs. Any member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints would
be reluctant to lose their co-equal position with God. For a member of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to deny Mormonism would be eternal, as well as
social, suicide! Members who have been elevated to the High Council, Mission
President, President of the Church, President of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles, Presiding Patriarch, Prophet, seer or revelator or even Temple
president, would be loath to give up their exalted position and lose their
eternal godship.
(Note: “godship” is not in your dictionary. But, as used here, I think the
meaning is clear.)
CONCLUSION
Paul asked us if we seek to please other men or to please God? He points out
that if someone preaches to please men he is not a servant of Christ. He
admonishes us to stand up for God and not for manmade gospels. We stand for
the gospel of Christ as reported by his apostles. We do not support the
Gospel of Joseph Smith.
Discrepancies Found!
Based on circumstantial evidence, such as the original golden plates being
“missing,” along with the lack of archeological evidence to support the
visit to the American continent, I am dubious of the reliability of Joseph
Smith. Based on the discrepancies between the Book of Mormon and the Bible I
am convinced Joseph Smith’s story is to be avoided. He is accursed for
leading so many people away from the true gospel!
The Bible tells us that the gospel of Jesus Christ is all we need for
salvation and anyone offering something else should be condemned.
No my friend, God is not the author of confusion and the Book of Mormon is
not from God.
We are to keep the faith as delivered and condemn the claims of an angel
offering a new, improved gospel.
The assertion that an angel from heaven was involved in providing a holy
book that disagrees with the apostolic gospels should be toxic to anyone
familiar with Christian Scripture.
Knowing mankind’s propensity for ignoring the Bible, the Father of Lies
offers perverted gospels. Appealing to man’s pride, he convinces him he is a
god himself and there is a new and better version of the Bible story.
However, according to the apostle Paul, Mormonism is a diabolical detour
leading to perdition! That is why I am not a Mormon.
But though we, or an angel from heaven,
preach any other gospel unto you
than that which we have preached unto you,
let him be accursed.
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