14 of 19

Write now Article Tools

What is a Christian religion? Is it just the belief in Jesus Christ? Technically most religions recognize that Jesus Christ did exist. Some believe Jesus is God. Other religions believe he was merely a prophet. You can not use the belief in Christ alone to determine if a religion is considered to be Christian. Otherwise, Muslim's and Buddhist's would be considered Christian.

Dictionary.com defines a Christian religion as "a monotheistic system of beliefs and practices based on the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus as embodied in the New Testament and emphasizing the role of Jesus as savior." (http://dictionary.reference.c om/browse/christian%20religion )

The important part of the definition is the end where it says a Christian religion emphasizes the role of Jesus as savior. This means a religion must recognize Christ as more than just a teacher or a prophet, but as a savior.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or the LDS church, is commonly questioned as to whether or not it is a Christian religion. The name of Jesus Christ is used in their official name. Joseph Smith, the first prophet of the LDS church, wrote thirteen articles about what the members of the religion, or Mormons, believe. The first point states "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost". The third point states "We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel."

According to the basic definition of Christianity The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is, indeed, a Christian religion. There are, however, many that still feel that Mormon's are not Christian based on their different opinions about the nature of Jesus Christ and God.

Information found on www.lds.org, the official website of the LDS church, explains their basic beliefs about Jesus Christ and God. They believe that God possesses a body of flesh and blood. They also believe that He was once a mortal man who attained godhood. They believe they are the spiritual children of God. They believe that Jesus is the mortal and spiritual son of God. They believe that Mary is the mortal mother of Jesus. However, they believe that Mary is not the wife of God. They believe that Jesus Christ was sent here to Earth by His Father, God, in order to bring salvation to men.

Many people also do not recognize Mormons as having a monotheistic religion because they believe God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost are three separate beings. They also believe other Gods exist. Since God was once a man he would have had a God and so forth. Mormons do claim they only worship one god.

Because many of these beliefs differ from orthodox Christian beliefs many people do not recognize Mormons as being Christian. The religion does, however, fit the most basic definition and the members of the church consider themselves Christian.

Sources:
http://www.l ds.org
http://www.dictionary.co m

More resources
http://www.lds.org

Learn more about this author, GinnyPenny.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Reflections: Can Mormons be considered Christians?
We want to hear your view. Write now!