argument index

Seven core arguments

The case is cumulative. God, Christ, Trinity, restoration, revelation, salvation, and authority all point to the same conclusion.

The doctrinal pattern #

Scripture gives the Christian boundary, official LDS sources state the LDS doctrine, and the difference is category-level rather than denominational.

LDS doctrine affirms Jesus and speaks of grace, but it redefines both inside a restored system of separate divine beings, priesthood authority, temple covenants, and exaltation.

A different God The Bible confesses one eternal God. LDS doctrine teaches separate divine beings, an embodied Father, and exalted humans becoming gods. A different Jesus LDS doctrine honors Jesus, but it locates Him in a premortal family system rather than confessing the eternal Son of one divine essence with the Father. The Trinity from the Bible The word is later, but the biblical pattern is early: one God, the Son as God, the Spirit as God, and real personal distinction. Restoration versus continuity LDS authority depends on the claim that Christianity lost priesthood authority and needed Joseph Smith's restoration. Revelation must be tested God can speak, but Galatians 1 forbids later revelation from redefining the apostolic gospel. Salvation and exaltation LDS grace language is embedded in a restored ordinance, temple, sealing, and exaltation system unknown to the apostolic gospel. Priesthood and temple authority The LDS highest saving structure depends on restored priesthood keys and temple ordinances, not only faith in Christ.

Primary references

The argument rests on public Scripture, official LDS material, and Christian sources.

Official LDS

Godhead, Topics and Questions

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Official LDS teaching that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are distinct beings, one in purpose and doctrine.

Official LDS

Are 'Mormons' Christian?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Official essay acknowledging LDS rejection of post-New Testament creeds and distinct restoration claims.

LDS Scripture

Articles of Faith

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

LDS scripture affirming the Bible as far as translated correctly, additional scripture, continuing revelation, and laws and ordinances.