Have you ever heard someone referred to as a "Latter-day Saint" and wondered what that actually means? With over 16 million members worldwide, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a significant global faith, yet its name and foundational beliefs are often misunderstood. This can lead to confusion and even misrepresentation, preventing genuine understanding and respectful dialogue between people of different faiths.
Understanding the term "Latter-day Saint" is crucial for anyone interested in learning about this distinct Christian denomination. It provides insight into their core beliefs, historical origins, and unique perspective on the role of Jesus Christ in the modern world. By exploring the meaning behind the name, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the Latter-day Saint faith and its place within the broader religious landscape.
What do Latter-day Saints believe?
What does "latter-day" signify in Latter-day Saints?
In the name "Latter-day Saints," "latter-day" signifies the belief that members are living in the final period of earth's history before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. It denotes a restoration of the original Church of Jesus Christ established in the "former-day," or the meridian of time (when Jesus Christ lived and ministered), emphasizing that God continues to reveal His will and guide His children in these modern times.
The term directly reflects the belief in a divinely appointed succession of dispensations, or periods of time in which God reveals His plan of salvation through prophets. The Latter-day Saints hold that the world has progressed through various dispensations, such as those of Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses. They see the ministry of Jesus Christ as the culmination of these previous dispensations. The "latter-day" is thus understood as a final dispensation, a restoration of all things spoken by the prophets, prior to the Lord's return.
Therefore, the name "Latter-day Saints" not only differentiates them from those who lived during Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry (the "former-day" saints) but also highlights their conviction that they are living in a unique and significant period of history. It implies a responsibility to prepare themselves and the world for the Second Coming by adhering to restored gospel principles and sharing them with others. The name is a constant reminder of their belief in ongoing revelation and the imminence of Christ's return.
Is "Latter-day Saint" synonymous with "Mormon"?
While "Latter-day Saint" and "Mormon" are often used interchangeably, they are not strictly synonymous, though closely related. "Latter-day Saint" is the more formal and broader term encompassing members of churches that trace their origins to Joseph Smith's revelations and the Book of Mormon. "Mormon," however, is a nickname derived from the Book of Mormon and is most commonly used to refer to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often abbreviated as the "LDS Church"), the largest denomination within the Latter-day Saint movement.
The term "Latter-day Saint" signifies a belief in the restoration of Jesus Christ's original church in these "latter days," or the time leading up to the Second Coming. Several different churches arose from the early Latter Day Saint movement, each considering themselves part of this restoration. Therefore, while members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are Latter-day Saints, not all Latter-day Saints are members of that specific church. Other denominations, such as the Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), also consider themselves Latter-day Saints, though they may not identify with the term "Mormon."
In recent years, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have actively discouraged the use of the term "Mormon" as a primary identifier for members or the Church itself, emphasizing the full and formal name of the Church to keep Christ at the center of their identity. While the term "Mormon" isn't inherently offensive, the preference for "Latter-day Saint" or "member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" reflects a desire for clarity and accuracy in how the Church and its members are understood.
What are the core beliefs of Latter-day Saints?
Latter-day Saints, also known as Mormons, believe in Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world and center their faith on His Atonement. They believe in the Bible and the Book of Mormon as scripture, divine revelation through living prophets and apostles, the importance of families, and the potential for eternal life in God's presence.
Beyond their belief in Jesus Christ, Latter-day Saints hold several key tenets that distinguish them. They believe that the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ was restored to the earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith. This restoration includes the authority to act in God's name, known as the priesthood, and the reestablishment of Christ's original church. This restoration is why they are known as "Latter-day Saints," indicating they are living in the "latter days" or final dispensation of time before the Second Coming of Christ. Further distinguishing beliefs of Latter-day Saints include the concept of continuing revelation, the importance of temple worship and ordinances (including baptism for the dead and eternal marriage), and a unique understanding of the plan of salvation, which encompasses pre-mortal existence, earthly life, and post-mortal life with opportunities for progression. These beliefs shape their worldview and influence their daily lives, emphasizing service, family, and personal spiritual growth.How do Latter-day Saints view scripture beyond the Bible?
Latter-day Saints believe that the Bible is scripture but also embrace additional books as divinely inspired and authoritative, including the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. They see these works as complementing and clarifying the Bible, not replacing it, and believe that God continues to reveal His will to humanity through prophets in modern times.
Latter-day Saints hold that the Bible, while considered sacred, has passed through multiple translations and transcriptions, potentially introducing errors or obscuring certain truths. They believe the Book of Mormon, presented as a record of God’s dealings with ancient inhabitants of the Americas, provides a second witness of Jesus Christ and restores plain and precious truths lost from the Bible. The Doctrine and Covenants is seen as a collection of revelations, prophecies, and instructions given to modern prophets, primarily Joseph Smith, providing guidance for the contemporary church. The Pearl of Great Price contains selections from the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, Joseph Smith’s translation of Matthew, and Joseph Smith’s history. This expanded canon of scripture informs Latter-day Saint theology, practice, and understanding of God's plan for humanity. It offers further insights into the nature of the Godhead, the purpose of life, the importance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and the principles of eternal progression. By studying all these scriptural works, Latter-day Saints seek a fuller and more complete understanding of God's word and His will.What is the historical context of the Latter-day Saint movement?
The Latter-day Saint movement emerged in the United States during the Second Great Awakening, a period of intense religious revivalism in the early 19th century. This context of fervent religious searching, coupled with societal anxieties about rapid social and economic change, provided fertile ground for new religious movements. Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of the movement, claimed to have received divine revelations that led to the publication of the Book of Mormon in 1830, which he presented as a new volume of scripture and a restoration of true Christianity.
The Second Great Awakening was characterized by emotional preaching, camp meetings, and a widespread belief in the possibility of individual conversion and religious renewal. Existing denominations like Methodists, Baptists, and Presbyterians experienced significant growth, but the period also saw the rise of numerous new religious groups and leaders who challenged traditional doctrines and practices. Smith's claims of new scripture and direct revelation placed him firmly within this environment of religious innovation and dissent. His message resonated with individuals seeking a more personal and authentic religious experience, as well as those disillusioned with the perceived shortcomings of established churches. The movement's early history was marked by significant opposition and persecution. The Saints, as members referred to themselves, faced hostility due to their unconventional religious beliefs, communal economic practices, and growing political influence. This led to a series of migrations, beginning in New York and continuing westward through Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois, culminating in their eventual settlement in the Great Salt Lake Valley under the leadership of Brigham Young after Smith's death in 1844. The historical context of persecution and displacement significantly shaped the Latter-day Saint identity and their commitment to religious freedom and self-determination.How do Latter-day Saints differ from other Christian denominations?
Latter-day Saints, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, differ from other Christian denominations primarily through their belief in continuing revelation, their expanded canon of scripture beyond the Bible, including the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, and their distinct doctrines regarding the nature of God, the plan of salvation, and the role of temples.
Other Christian denominations generally believe that revelation ceased with the early apostles and the completion of the New Testament. In contrast, Latter-day Saints believe that God continues to speak to humanity through prophets today, just as He did in biblical times. This belief in continuing revelation leads to the acceptance of additional scriptures, which Latter-day Saints believe clarify and supplement the teachings of the Bible, providing a fuller understanding of God's plan. Furthermore, Latter-day Saint theology presents a different perspective on the Godhead, viewing it as composed of three distinct beings – God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost – united in purpose, a view that differs from the traditional Trinitarian doctrine held by many other Christian denominations. Finally, temples play a central role in Latter-day Saint worship and theology. While other Christians view churches as places for communal worship and learning, Latter-day Saints consider temples to be sacred houses of the Lord where specific ordinances, such as baptism for the dead and eternal marriage, are performed. These ordinances are believed to be essential for the salvation and exaltation of individuals and families, reinforcing a unique understanding of God’s plan for humanity’s eternal progression.What is the significance of "saints" in the Latter-day Saint identity?
In Latter-day Saint (LDS) identity, "saints" refers to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizing their covenant relationship with God and their striving to live according to Christ's teachings. It signifies a commitment to holiness, discipleship, and building the Kingdom of God on earth, reflecting the New Testament usage of the term to describe early Christians.
The term "Latter-day" distinguishes them from the "Former-day" saints of the biblical era. Latter-day Saints believe they are living in the "latter days" spoken of in prophecy, a period preceding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Thus, calling themselves saints emphasizes their role in preparing the world for this event, actively participating in missionary work, temple worship, and service to others. It also underscores a belief in continuing revelation and the restoration of Christ's original church with its priesthood authority and spiritual gifts. Furthermore, the usage of "saint" fosters a sense of community and shared purpose among members. It reminds them that they are part of a collective effort to follow Christ and improve the world. It's not a declaration of personal perfection, but rather an acknowledgement of a continuous journey of spiritual growth and repentance. The emphasis is on striving to become more Christlike through faith, obedience, and reliance on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. This collective identity strengthens their resolve to uphold the principles of their faith and support one another in their pursuit of discipleship.So, there you have it! Hopefully, that clears up what "Latter-day Saints" means. Thanks for taking the time to learn a little more. We'd love to have you back to explore other topics whenever you're curious!