“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” – 1 Timothy 2:5
Understanding the Nature of God
In our exploration of faith, we come across various interpretations of God’s nature among different denominations, including Mormonism. Learning about God as a singular being, yet so expansive, reinforces our understanding of the true essence of worship. The Bible consistently portrays God as eternal, self-existent, and unique, contrasting with beliefs that suggest multiple deities or different forms of God. By focusing on these attributes, we reflect on our relationship with the one true God, embracing His singular power and glory.
Isaiah 44:6
“This is what the Lord says— Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.” – Isaiah 44:6
John 17:3
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” – John 17:3
Deuteronomy 6:4
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” – Deuteronomy 6:4
Isaiah 45:5
“I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God.” – Isaiah 45:5
1 Corinthians 8:6
“Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” – 1 Corinthians 8:6
The Role of Jesus Christ
One of the most significant differences in the beliefs between Christianity and other faiths, including Mormonism, is the understanding of Jesus Christ. For us, Jesus is not only a revered prophet but the divine Son of God who plays an essential role in our salvation. His sacrificial love, death, and resurrection are central to our faith. By acknowledging His importance, we align ourselves with the biblical truths that testify of His power to save and transform our lives.
John 14:6
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” – John 14:6
Acts 4:12
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12
Matthew 1:21
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21
Romans 10:9
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” – Romans 10:9
Hebrews 7:25
“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” – Hebrews 7:25
The Authority of Scripture
The Bible teaches us that Scripture holds an important place in our faith. Many denominations, including Mormonism, hold additional texts. As Christians, we emphasize that the Holy Bible is complete and sufficient for our spiritual growth. The Bible serves as the guiding light in our lives, offering wisdom, correction, and guidance. By affirming its authority, we commit ourselves to living according to God’s word and seeking His will through scripture.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
Revelation 22:18-19
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: if anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.” – Revelation 22:18-19
1 Thessalonians 2:13
“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Proverbs 30:5
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” – Proverbs 30:5
Salvation through Faith
Salvation is a core tenet of our Christian faith, and we believe that it comes through grace and faith in Jesus Christ alone. However, differing perspectives on works and grace exist, especially when compared to beliefs held in other faiths like Mormonism. Embracing the biblical truth that we are saved by faith, not by works, gives us assurance of our eternal life with God. This foundational principle underlines our hope and reliance on Christ’s redemptive work.
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
Romans 3:28
“For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.” – Romans 3:28
Titus 3:5
“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” – Titus 3:5
Galatians 2:16
“Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified.” – Galatians 2:16
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
The Importance of Grace
Grace is a beautiful gift from God that is central to our faith. It extends beyond our understanding, reminding us that we are unworthy yet accepted. In contrast to the notion of works-centric salvation found in some beliefs, we recognize grace as the unmerited favor bestowed upon us by God. Accepting this gift allows us to live joyfully in the freedom that Christ provides, knowing that our relationship with God is based on love, not performance.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Romans 11:6
“And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.” – Romans 11:6
Hebrews 4:16
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16
1 Peter 5:10
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” – 1 Peter 5:10
The Call to Disciple Nations
As followers of Christ, we are called to be disciples and to share the good news of the Gospel with the world. This includes discussions about faith with people from diverse backgrounds, including those of different beliefs such as Mormonism. Our mission is one of love, bringing others into a relationship with Christ rather than condemnation. By embracing this call, we fulfill our purpose as Christians, grow in our love for others, and bring glory to God.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Mark 16:15
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'” – Mark 16:15
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
2 Timothy 4:2
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” – 2 Timothy 4:2
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the teachings of the Bible concerning Mormonism and our understanding of Christianity, we see clear distinctions in beliefs and practices. Embracing the singular nature of God, the central role of Jesus Christ, and the authority of Scripture helps us build a strong foundation for our faith. We acknowledge the essential truth of salvation through faith in Christ and the beautiful gift of grace that allows us to live fully for Him. Lastly, we feel the call to share the Gospel with love and truth, aiming to reach everyone for His glory.
By engaging with these scriptures, we nurture our faith and deepen our understanding. It’s a grace-filled journey that invites us to examine our beliefs and grow in our relationship with God. Let’s continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our faith and share it with others. We are excited to learn more together, so let’s read and grow!
For more insights on various biblical topics, take a moment to explore our other resources.