Mormons believe the physical body is a sacred gift from God. As such, we are to treat it with respect, understanding that Jesus Christ has bought our bodies for a price, through the atonement.  

Mormons believe that we lived in heaven before coming to earth. In this state we were spirit-children of Heavenly Parents; we had no physical bodies. We understood that in order to attain complete eternal joy, we would have to go to earth to receive  physical bodies and be tested. Mormon belief teaches that our bodies are made in the image of the Lord and that the Spirit of the Lord can reside in our bodies when we live worthy of that blessing. The mortal body is corruptible, subject to disease and injury.  It is also the vehicle through which men and women are tempted.  It is also the tabernacle for the spirit, and a dwelling place for the Holy Ghost.  We are to control our human appetites within the bounds the Lord has set.  We are to attune ourselves to the promptings of the Holy Spirit by sanctifying ourselves, body and mind.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, his shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”

Because the body is such a precious gift, the Lord has given us rules as to the care of the body. Received mostly through modern-day revelation, these rules are taken seriously by Mormons. One specific section of the Doctrine and Covenants—the book of revelations recorded by Joseph Smith and others throughout the early days of the Mormon Church—outlines a superb system for the care of the body. Section 89, otherwise known as the Word of Wisdom, explains that there are certain foods/substances that are good, and others that are not as good, for the body. For example, the use of coffee, black and green tea, tobacco, alcohol, and the various narcotics and illegal drugs is condemned by the Church. Mormons believe that any substance that alters the body or the mind is not condoned by the Lord. When individuals disobey the commandments the Lord has set forth, they lose the freedom and control over their bodies that is such a blessing to each of us.

In addition to the guidelines on the harmful substances, the Word of Wisdom  suggests the use of herbs, meat, fruit, and grain, stating that they are on the earth for man’s benefit and should be used in their proper season.

For further reading:

“The Body is Sacred,” by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley

“The Scourge of Illicit Drugs,” by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley

“The Sanctity of the Body,” by Susan W. Tanner

“Ye are the Temple of God,” by Apostle Boyd K. Packer

“Not for the Body,” by Elder Harold G. Hillam

“The Energy Drink Epidemic, by Thomas J. Boud, MD

“Cancer, Nutrition, and the Word of Wisdom: One Doctor’s Observations,” by William T. Stephenson, MD

Mormons do not worship Joseph Smith; neither is Mormonism a cult built around him. Mormons consider Joseph Smith, Jr. (1805–1844), the founder of the Mormon Church, to be a true prophet. Following what Mormons believe to be divine instruction, Joseph formed the Mormon Church—more properly known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons revere his work and his sacrifice, understanding it to be some of the most important work of the latter-days, and remember him as a martyr for the cause of truth.  He was persecuted mercilessly all his days, yet worked tirelessly to forward the Lord’s work.

Mormons believe Jesus Christ established His church when He was on the earth. This church was directed by Him personally while He ministered on earth, and through revelation to His apostles and prophets after His crucifixion.  The apostles, as recorded in the New Testament, were constantly called upon to correct erroneous ideas which proliferated in congregations of Christians.  Some of these ideas were simple misunderstandings of true doctrine, while others were contrived by prideful men.  Paul predicted that Christ would not come a second time, except there was a general falling away first.  After the death of the apostles, with erroneous ideas spreading and no prophets to replace the apostles, a “great apostasy” occurred.  Men, theocrats and philosophers, legislated doctrine according to their own beliefs, and truth was corrupted.

By the time Joseph Smith was a boy, in America and elsewhere, there were congregations of “restorationists”– those who believed not in the reform of Orthodox Christianity, and not in Protestantism, but in a restoration of Christ’s ancient church and a restoration of lost truth.

Mormon history is interesting, and could possibly begin with the church Jesus Christ built. Mormons believe that the Reformation and the Enlightenment in Europe were steps toward restoring Christ’s Church.  The establishment of America, with its guaranteed freedoms, created an environment where the restoration could survive. The Lord Jesus Christ began in 1820 to restore His church once more to the earth. He did this through the Prophet Joseph Smith, who, at the age of 14, desired to know more about the various religions which were vying for converts in the northeastern United States. Joseph desired to know which sect he should join. In his personal record he wrote:

In the midst of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done? Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any one of them be right, which is it, and how shall I know it? Around this time, I read in the Book of James, first chapter and fifth verse: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

This scripture impressed Joseph in a profound way, and he finally determined to venture and personally ask God which of the sects was correct. He went into the woods and knelt to pray to the Father. It was during this experience that he saw the Father and the Son and began the many years of heavenly instruction which would bring the Church of Jesus Christ again to the earth.  Joseph Smith received heavenly messengers on a regular basis, and the accounts of these visits are as logical as accounts of business meetings.  Most of these messengers were resurrected beings carrying out instructions from God according to their stewardships during religious dispensations on earth.  Therefore, Moroni, the last prophet in ancient America, delivered the gold plates containing the Book of Mormon.  Moses came to Joseph Smith to restore the Aaronic Priesthood.  Elijah came to him to restore the sealing power that binds in heaven and on earth.  Peter, James, and John returned to restore the higher priesthood–the Melchizedek.  And Christ visited him on numerous times to accept His holy temples and to instruct him.  Such visitations are common knowledge in the Church.  Mormons accept the Church’s connection with heaven with gratitude and reason and peace, and without fanfare, mysticism, or sensationalism.

The Church of Jesus Christ (Mormon Church) has now grown to include more than 13 million members living in many nations. The Mormon Church has the same teachings and basic organization as the Church established by Jesus when He was living on the Earth.

Mormons believe Joseph Smith followed the divine instruction He received to bring back the sacred commandments, promises, priesthood authority, and ordinances of Christ’s church. These important revelations allow men and women to be taught, receive salvation, and to eventually live with Christ again.

Mormons believe the truth of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is again upon the earth. In 1830 the prophet Joseph Smith received a vision in which God the Father and the Son both appeared to him, instructing him not to join any of the various religions or sects that were on the earth at that time. Instead, Joseph was to begin the process of restoring the truths of Christ’s Church—the church He established when he lived on earth two thousand years ago. The underlying message of Christ’s gospel is the atonement. We can all repent and be forgiven of our sins and live with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again.

This is an exciting message, one which Mormons feel they have a responsibility and privilege to share with the world. Christ atoned for our sins, and because of His incredible gift to the world, we can all be free from sin. Mormons believe they should share the message of Christ’s gospel through the way they live their lives; however, there is also an organized system of missionary work in the Mormon Church as well. The formal missionary program for the Church sends out over 56,000 missionaries to approximately 330 organized missions worldwide at any given time. Men, after they turn 19, are eligible to serve full-time (two-year) missions for the Church if they are living worthy lives. Women are eligible after turning 21. Women in the Mormon church serve 18-month missions.

Mormon missionaries are called to serve all over the world, in various languages. All missionaries serve for a time at the beginning of their missions in a “Missionary Training Center.” Here they learn the basics of missionary work and, if they will be speaking a foreign language, they learn the language as well. Once in the field, a missionary’s main purpose is to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. To do this, he or she may go to door to door, perform service, and do other activities in accordance with the strict moral code of Mormon missionaries. Mormon missionaries teach through the power of God’s spirit. They use tools such as prayer, scripture study, and sharing testimony to accomplish this. The Book of Mormon is an essential means by which missionary work is accomplished. Mormons believe the Book of Mormon contains a clear explanation of the gospel of Christ.  Investigators are urged to read it, and then to follow the counsel found at the end of the book, written by its last ancient prophet, Moroni:

Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

 The fourth Article of Faith of Mormonism, which Articles were authored by Joseph Smith, states that “the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.”

The third principle/ordinance of the Mormon Church is, thus, baptism. This ordinance is not taken lightly; in fact, Mormons believe baptism is essential for entrance into the highest degree of glory after this life. Being baptized is necessary for salvation and exaltation.

The Mormon Church practices baptism by complete immersion, just as Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist as recorded in the New Testament. Baptism is symbolic of the death and burial of the carnal body and the rebirth of the person as a disciple of Jesus Christ and a member of His Church. Mormons believe that a person who repents and is baptized has all prior sins erased. He or she is cleansed.

Baptism is also the act of making a covenant with the Lord. By being baptized, a person promises to uphold the laws of Christ’s gospel, specifically that he or she will take His name upon themselves, remember Him, and keep His commandments. In return, the Lord promises to bless those who abide by the covenant faithfully and He will bestow upon them the gift of His Comforter, the Holy Ghost.

After being baptized, a member of the Mormon Church receives the gift of the Holy Ghost. This is an ordinance performed by the laying on of hands by men who hold the holy priesthood of the Lord. They bless the person with the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, which gift should be respected and treasured with great sensitivity. The Holy Ghost blesses a person in many ways.  He is a testator of truth; he warns of physical and spiritual danger; he blesses the prayerful recipient with personal revelation and inspiration; and he is a comforter and a protector.

 In the Mormon Church, baptism occurs at age eight or beyond—but never before. Mormons believe, from modern-day revelation, that at age eight children become accountable for their sins. They are able to discern on their own between right and wrong and have the maturity to understand the process of repentance. Mormon doctrine teaches that those who are unable to discern right from wrong (because of a mental impairment, for example) or children who die before the age of eight are cleansed by Christ’s atonement, and are not held accountable for their wrongdoings.  Such as these, who die before the age of accountability, or who never achieve accountability, are saved in the highest kingdom of heaven.

Although Jesus was perfect, He was baptized to show that “he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments” (2 Nephi 31:7). This humility and desire to witness to the Father by being obedient is necessary for all those who are baptized.

Baptismal covenants are renewed each week by partaking of the holy sacrament in sacrament meeting.  A person who keeps his baptismal covenants and partakes of the sacrament worthily each week, lives in a constant state of salvation.  Brigham Young called this dwelling “in the land of the living,” and said that such people are “saved all the time”  (Journal of Discourses). The atonement of Christ does not just save us upon our death and judgment, but daily, if we bring to him “a broken heart and a contrite spirit.”

In the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the terms “saved” and “salvation” have various meanings. As used in Romans 10:9–10, the words “saved” and “salvation” signify a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ. Through this covenant relationship, followers of Christ are assured salvation from the eternal consequences of sin if they are obedient. “Salvation” and “saved” are also used in the scriptures in other contexts with several different meanings.  

If someone were to ask if another person had been saved, the answer would depend on the sense in which the word is used. The answer might be “Yes” or perhaps it might be “Yes, but with conditions.” The following explanations outline six different meanings of the word salvation.  

Salvation from Physical Death. All people eventually die. But through the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, all people will be resurrected—saved from physical death. Paul testified, “As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (1 Corinthians 15:22). In this sense, everyone is saved, regardless of choices made during this life. This is a free gift from the Savior to all human beings.  

Salvation from Sin. To be cleansed from sin through the Savior’s Atonement, an individual must exercise faith in Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (see Acts 2:37–38). Those who have been baptized and have received the Holy Ghost through the proper priesthood authority have been conditionally saved from sin. In this sense, salvation is conditional, depending on an individual’s continuing in faithfulness, or enduring to the end in keeping the commandments of God (see 2 Peter 2:20–22).  

Individuals cannot be saved in their sins; they cannot receive unconditional salvation simply by declaring a belief in Christ with the understanding  

that they will inevitably commit sins throughout the rest of their lives (see Alma 11:36–37). However, through the grace of God, all can be saved from their sins (see 2 Nephi 25:23; Helaman 5:10–11) as they repent and follow Jesus Christ.  

Being Born Again. The principle of spiritual rebirth appears frequently in the scriptures. The New Testament contains Jesus’s teaching that everyone must be “born again” and that those who are not “born of water and of the Spirit . . . cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). This teaching is affirmed in the Book of Mormon: “All mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters; and thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God” (Mosiah 27:25–26).  

This rebirth occurs as individuals are baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. It comes as a result of a willingness “to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days” (Mosiah 5:5). Through this process, their “hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, [they] are born of him” (Mosiah 5:7). All who have truly repented, been baptized, have received the gift of the Holy Ghost, have made the covenant to take upon themselves the name of Jesus Christ, and have felt His influence in their lives, can say that they have been born again. That rebirth can be renewed each Sabbath when they partake of the sacrament.  

 Many people live in a state of darkness, not knowing the light of the restored gospel. They are “only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it” (Doctrine and Covenants 123:12). Those who have a knowledge of God the Father, Jesus Christ, the purpose of life, the plan of salvation, and their eternal potential are saved from this condition. They follow the Savior, who declared, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).  

Salvation from the Second Death. The scriptures sometimes speak of salvation from the second death. The second death is the final spiritual death—being cut off from righteousness and denied a place in any kingdom of glory (see Alma 12:32; Doctrine and Covenants 88:24). This second death will not come until the Final Judgment, and it will come to only a few (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:31–37). Almost every person who has ever lived on the earth is assured salvation from the second death (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:40–45) and will inherit a kingdom of glory in the eternities.  

Eternal Life, or Exaltation. In the scriptures, the words saved and salvation often refer to eternal life, or exaltation (see Abraham 2:11). Eternal life is to know Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and dwell with Them forever—to inherit a place in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom (see John 17:3; Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4; 132:21–24). This exaltation requires that men receive the Melchizedek Priesthood, and that all Church members make and keep sacred covenants in the temple, including the covenant of eternal marriage. If the word salvation is used in this sense, no one is saved in mortality. That glorious gift comes only after the Final Judgment.  (This information comes from Gospel Topics online:Salvation.)  

Mormons believe the family is the basic and essential social unit on earth, and that family structure and function has eternal implications. There is no greater work one can do than that which is performed within the walls of the home. Mormon doctrine teaches that the family can also be an eternal unit, when its members abide by covenants made in holy Mormon temples. In temples, couples are married for time and all eternity, meaning that they will live together forever, if they continue to be righteous in this life.

Those in the Mormon religion believe that before we came to earth to live with our families here, we lived with our Heavenly Parents—Heavenly Father and Mother—who created our spirits. In heaven we prepared to come to earth in the time the Lord established.

Jesus Christ, under the direction of Heavenly Father, created the earth to be our mortal home.  In this physical world we are commanded to multiply and replenish the earth. Mormons believe the Lord has given direct and important rules which apply to the powers of procreation.  These powers, which Mormons believe to be sacred, are to be employed only between man and woman, within the bonds of marriage. Mormonism affirms the supreme importance and beauty of creating families and the equal relationship between husband and wife.

What Mormons believe is that Satan is attacking the family today and wants us to adopt a casual attitude about procreation and family relationships. In truth, the Lord has revealed that families are of utmost importance and we should do all we can to prepare for our future families or treasure those we already have. The Lord will bless those who strive for family unity and love. Mormons devote their best efforts to creating homes where their children can properly grow and develop, preparing for the challenges of life and learning to rely on the promises of the Lord to the faithful.

The Mormon Church shapes its programs, and activities to uphold the family as an eternal unit.  Church leaders encourage family prayer, family scripture reading, and “family home evening,” a family gathering usually held on Monday nights. Wholesome recreation and church programs round out the activities encouraged by the Church.

The Church has published a document, entitled Family: A Proclamation to the world, explaining the Church’s stand on the family.  This proclamation must be viewed as the Lord’s stand on the family, since proclamations by the Church begin with direct revelation from God.  The Church supports political and social movements that uphold the traditional family.

To see information regarding the Church’s involvement with California’s Proposition 8 controversy, click here.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World

The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.

In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.

The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.

We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan.

Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. “Children are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.

We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.

This proclamation was read by President Gordon B. Hinckley as part of his message at the General Relief Society Meeting held September 23, 1995, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Mormon belief teaches that God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three distinct personages. God the Father and Christ have perfect bodies of flesh and bones, which are so glorious that man cannot be in their presence and live, unless he is quickened first. The Holy Ghost is a spirit son of the Father who confirms truth to all those who strive to listen to his promptings. Mormons often refer to God the Father as “Heavenly Father,” for Mormons believe that He is the Father of our spirits, and that we dwelt with Him in a pre-mortal existence before being born onto the earth.

Psalm 82:6: “I have said, ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.”

God the Father is the Creator of the Universe, and He created all things through “The Word,” or Jesus Christ.  God the Father has created worlds without number.  As He spake unto Moses:

And behold, the glory of the Lord was upon Moses, so that Moses stood in the presence of God, and talked with him face to face. And the Lord God said unto Moses: For mine own purpose have I made these things. Here is wisdom and it remaineth in me.  And by the word of my power, have I created them, which is mine Only Begotten Son, who is full of grace and truth.

Matthew 5:48: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”

Mormonism teaches that Heavenly Father is the Father of Jesus Christ, who was sent to earth to pay the price for all the sins of mankind. If we believe in Jesus Christ and strive to live righteously by obeying His commandments, we can be saved through the power of His atonement.

Heavenly Father is both just and merciful. He has designed a plan for us to return back to him. Mormons refer to this plan as the plan of salvation. Much of the doctrine found in the plan was revealed through the prophet Joseph Smith in the early days of the Mormon Church.

Part of the plan of salvation is the requirement that one must have a body to obtain joy in the eternities. Mormons believe that the physical body is a gift from the Lord, and we must take care of our bodies if we are to return to live forever with Heavenly Father. When Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son in a vision, he described the Father as having “a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:22-23). Thus, Mormon Doctrine posits that having a physical body here on earth prepares us to one day to be resurrected like our Father in Heaven.

What Mormons believe is that God the Father wants to hear from each of us daily through prayer. It is in our best interest to communicate with Him, because He has commanded it and will protect us if we are obedient.

Doctrine and Covenants 10:5: “Pray always, that you may come off conqueror; yea, that you may conquer Satan, and that you may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work.”

It is Mormon belief that it is important for each man and woman to know that Heavenly Father is indeed their Father and that he knows and loves His children. This understanding gives us the strength and determination that are required to persevere through life’s difficulties and to live righteously.

At the end of our mortal lives on earth, we all die. Mormons believe that life does not end with death.   Mormons believe death is the departure of the spirit from a body that is no longer inhabitable. The spirit leaves the body and enters the spirit world, where he or she waits for resurrection and judgment.  Mormon prophet Joseph F. Smith saw a vision of the Spirit World.  His account, and the revelations of Joseph Smith, reveal that we enjoy felicity with our families and friends in the Spirit World, but that we also long to be resurrected, for only in the perfect union of our spirits with our bodies can we experience true joy.  Joseph F. Smith saw that Christ Himself taught the spirits of the righteous during the three days that His body lay in the tomb.  He saw that Christ ordained prophets who were already deceased to also go among the spirits of the rebellious to teach them the gospel, a work that is ongoing. While in the spirit world, those who did not have a chance to hear the gospel of Christ on earth are taught by these missionaries and other emissaries of Christ. The children of God who didn’t hear the gospel on earth may choose to accept it in the spirit world and may receive all the eternal blessings that come with that acceptance.

It is Mormon belief that after the resurrection people will be assigned to one of three kingdoms, each having a certain degree of glory (so glorious as to be unimaginable to us), based upon their faithfulness and the completion of temple ordinances. The sun, moon, and stars represent the three degrees of glory. Christ made it possible for each person to receive the highest degree of glory if the person obeys His commandments and applies His atonement to his life while on earth. This requires humility and repentance from sins.  The Mormon Church teaches that this assignment to kingdoms will occur at judgment, the event at which our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will preside and we will be judged according to our deeds and intentions during our mortal life. Our bodies will be in their resurrected, perfected state, and we will be assigned to one of three kingdoms: the Celestial, the Terrestrial, or the Telestial. The Celestial kingdom is the highest and most glorious of all the kingdoms; next comes the Terrestrial, and finally, the Telestial. Mormons believe the Celestial kingdom is where we may live eternally as family units and with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Mormonism also teaches that each husband and wife—each eternal and worthy companionship created in sacred Mormon temples can eventually create worlds of their own. This is the ultimate goal of the plan of salvation–to inherit all that Christ has, including the power to create. Mormons believe that this state of being eternally with God and like God (although never supplanting God) equates to a fulness of joy.  (See Mormon Beliefs:Why Mormons are called the “Godmakers.“)

The knowledge that family ties and friendships continue after death; the knowledge that teaching and missionary work in the spirit world “levels the playing field” for those who lived and died without receiving the gospel; the knowledge that all will be resurrected; the knowledge that nearly everyone who has ever lived will inherit a kingdom of unimaginable glory–all these things give Latter-day Saints a hope that transcends death.

Another glorious doctrine was taught by the Prophet Joseph Smith.  He learned through revelation that little children who die are resurrected at the age they had attained at death.  In the afterlife, the mothers of these children may have the joy and recompense of raising them to maturity.

The doctrines of Mormonism bring much comfort to members who have lost loved ones.  Mormon funerals are inspiring and hopeful.  Mormon doctrine answers questions that can bring despair and confusion if left unanswered.  God loves His children.  His “mission statement” can be found in the Pearl of Great Price: “For this is my work and my glory, to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

Mormons “believe all that God has revealed, all that he does now reveal, and [they] believe that he will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” 2 Mormons believe in continuing revelation.  Mormons also believe in personal revelation, and that God is no respecter of persons.  All men come to earth in possession of the “Light of Christ,” which acts as a conscience and urges men to do good.  From time to time, the Holy Ghost speaks to God’s children, warning them, or guiding them to truth, spreading knowledge on the earth.

The scriptures say the following:

Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets (Amos 3:7).

During His ministry, Christ organized His Church with Apostles and Seventies under His direction.  After His death, the Apostles were guided by direct revelation from Christ.  Mormons believe that after the death of Christ’s apostles, Christ’s Church ceased to have prophets to guide it through direct revelation.  The authority to act in God’s name was also lost.  Without divine revelation through prophets, the philosophies of men became incorporated into what was once the pure gospel of Christ.  Schisms developed, and the result is the existence of many sects of Christianity which vary in doctrine, none teaching complete gospel truth, and none having direct authority to act in the name of God.  Mormons call this the “Great Apostasy.”

Through the ages, the Lord has been preparing the earth to receive the fulness of His gospel again.  Mormons believe that the Founding Fathers of the United States were raised up to help create a free country with religious choice, and that the American Constitution is an inspired document for the same reason.  The Enlightenment and Reformation, with their brave leaders, helped to set the stage for this to occur, all towards the goal of a restoration of Christ’s Church with prophets to guide it.

In 1820, Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ, and was intructed by them to lead out in reestablishing the true Church of Christ.  Heavenly messengers–John the Baptist; and Peter, James, and John; and Elijah– restored the priesthood authority to bind covenants on earth and in heaven. Since then there have been prophets, seers, and revelators upon the earth. A prophet leads The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and receives continuous divine revelation from God.  As it says in 1 Nephi 22:2: “Behold they were manifest unto the prophet by the voice of the Spirit; for by the Spirit are all things made known unto the prophets, which shall come upon the children of men according to the flesh.”

Baptized members of the Mormon Church receive the permanent Gift of the Holy Ghost.  The Holy Ghost is their companion as long as members remain worthy.  The Holy Ghost acts as a sanctifier, a testator of truth, an aid to discernment, a vehicle for inspiration, and a comforter.  Mormons are counseled to take every instruction they receive from the General Authorities of the Church, and to pray about them, expecting to receive validation from the Lord through the Holy Ghost that what they have received is true.  Members are to rely on personal revelation in making important decisions and fulfilling callings in the Church.  Mormons are counseled to “pray always, that [we] may come off conqueror; yea, that [we] may conquer Satan, and that [we] may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work.” Revelation received through prayer is protective.

In John 14:26 the words of Jesus Christ concerning knowledge received through the Holy Ghost in revelation are recorded:

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to you remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

Mormons know the Lord is directly concerned in the lives of all of His children.  Mormons believe that He will answer their sincere prayers.

Matthew 21:22: “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”

James 1:5: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

These gifts of knowledge, comfort, and protection come through personal revelation.

Mormons believe “the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly” They “also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.” 3 The Lord said, “The testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another.” 4 Both the Book of Mormonand Bible testify of Christ, and they are the records of two separate nations: The Bible tells the story of those living in the Old Jerusalem, or Israel, and the Book of Mormon is the record of the people who traveled from Jerusalem to the American continent just before Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians.

The Mormon Church has an open scriptural canon, meaning more scripture can be added. This is because of the Mormon doctrine which posits that leaders of the Church continue to receive revelation for the Church. It also reflects the Mormon belief that prophets from the beginning of time have recorded their revelations, but that the Lord has not seen fit to reveal them to us.  Therefore, there are existing scriptures that are still hidden from men.  Mormons believe the Ten Lost Tribes have had prophets and thus have scriptures they will bring with them when they return.  Also, John the Baptist, Joseph who was sold into Egypt, and others have written much that has not yet been revealed.  Certain Book of Mormon prophets saw “the beginning from the end” in vision and recorded those visions.  The Lord has withheld them, because men are not yet worthy to receive them.

Thus far, the scriptures of the Mormon Church include the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. These four books are known as the “standard works” of the Church. However, Mormons believe also that the leaders of the Church continually receive revelation from the Lord God and thus their talks and sermons can be considered ‘modern-day’ scripture for our time.

It is Mormon belief that each book of scripture contains the word of God and should be treated with reverence. Mormons conscientiously study the scriptures to learn the commandments and the will of the Lord, to come to know their Savior, and to receive personal revelation for their individual lives.

The Holy Bible, King James version, is considered by Mormons to be the translation of the Bible which is most useful. Mormons understand that the records contained in the Bible have undergone many alterations throughout the thousands of years they have existed, but the Bible contains the beautiful and marvelous accounts of the Savior and His early prophets, so many truths can be found therein.   Some people outside the Church think Mormons have replaced the Bible with the Book of Mormon.  This is untrue.  The two books substantiate each other.  In the adult Sunday School class called “Gospel Doctrine,” a four-year course of study is followed and rotated.  Two of those years are devoted to Bible study.  Nor has the Mormon Church rewritten the Bible.  The English Bible (KJV) printed by the Church includes an extensive footnoting system for cross-reference to the other standard works, plus a dictionary, topical guide, gazeteer, and maps.  Joseph Smith did retranslate certain parts of the Bible, and his translation of Matthew is included, but separate from the King James Version.

The Book of Mormon is known as another testament of Jesus Christ, because, as mentioned above, it is a record of the people on the American continent before, during, and after Christ’s appearance there. Mormons believe the prophet Mormon, who abridged the book in ancient times, completed his writing and abridgements and delivered the account to his son Moroni, who added words of his own and hid the inscribed metal plates. Mormonism teaches that the same Moroni visited the prophet Joseph Smith in 1823 and instructed him about the plates. These plates became the Book of Mormon when they were translated.

The Doctrine and Covenants is a compilation of revelations and records from the earlier days of the Mormon Church, after its restoration in 1830 through divine instruction, and headed by the prophet Joseph Smith.  The preface to the Doctrine and Covenants was written by Jesus Christ Himself.  His voice and words are recognizable throughout.  Many restored doctrines are explained in the Doctrine and Covenants, and many revelations are found there, including the nature of the Spirit World, where we go after death; and a revelation on the kingdoms of heaven.

The Pearl of Great Price is a selection of written materials relating to faith and doctrine of the Mormon Church. These records are also of ancient origin.  They include the writings of Moses and Abraham, translated or revealed by God to Joseph Smith.  Much information on the Creation of the earth and our pre-mortal existence is found there.