5 Common Misconceptions in Christianity vs Mormonism

For many Christians, their idea of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often informally called the Mormon or LDS Church) is shaped less by direct knowledge and more by secondhand claims. While there are important theological differences between most Christian denominations and Mormonism, those differences are often obscured by misunderstandings. Clarifying what Latter-day Saints actually believe can lead to better interfaith conversations.

Below are five common misconceptions in the world of Christianity vs Mormonism followed by what Latter-day Saints actually believe.

Misconception 1: Mormons Don’t Worship Jesus

When it comes to common misconceptions about Mormons, this is probably the least accurate, leading many to wonder: are Mormons Christian? 

Latter-day Saints explicitly center their faith on Jesus Christ. His name is in the full name of their church, their prayers are offered in His name, and their scriptures and sermons constantly teach that salvation comes only through Jesus. They affirm His Godhood, His virgin birth, His atoning sacrifice, His literal resurrection, and His role as Savior and Redeemer of humanity.

So where does the confusion come from?

Primarily, misconceptions on is Mormonism Christian stem from theological differences about who Jesus is in relation to God the Father. Latter-day Saints believe that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three divine beings united in purpose, rather than one being in three persons as defined in the Nicene Creed. Because this differs from traditional Trinitarian doctrine, some Christians conclude that Mormons must worship a “different Jesus.” However, Latter-day Saints would strongly disagree, claiming that the same Jesus of the New Testament that other Christians follow is very much the object of their worship.

While some Christians may understandably see this as a serious doctrinal disagreement, it is inaccurate to say that Latter-day Saints don’t worship Jesus at all. They do, though within a different theological framework.

Misconception 2: The Book of Mormon Is the “Mormon Bible”

Another common assumption is that the Book of Mormon is the Mormon version of the Bible, replacing it. In reality, the Bible is foundational to Latter-day Saint belief and practice.

Latter-day Saints accept the Bible as the word of God and regularly study it in church, personal study, and Sunday school classes. The King James Version is the officially used English translation. The Book of Mormon is not viewed as a replacement, but as another volume of scripture that gives a second witness to the biblical testimony of Jesus Christ, hence its subtitle: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.

The Book of Mormon is understood to be a record of God’s dealings with ancient peoples in the Americas, culminating in a post-resurrection ministry of Jesus Christ to them. Latter-day Saints believe it aligns with the Bible, reinforces its teachings, and clarifies key doctrines. Basically: it’s not the Bible, but it’s just as good and just as important.

Other Christians may reject the Book of Mormon as divine scripture, but the term “Mormon Bible” that’s often used in Christianity vs Mormonism debates is not an accurate description.

Misconception 3: Mormons Have Multiple Wives

This misconception has strong historical roots, but doesn’t reflect modern reality. Polygamy was practiced by some members of the Church in the 19th century before it was publicly discontinued in 1890. Today, Mormonism strictly forbids polygamy, and members who practice it are subject to excommunication.

So why does the association persist?

It’s partly because certain fundamentalist groups that broke away from the Church long ago continue to practice polygamy while still calling themselves “Mormon.” However, these groups are not affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

For contemporary Latter-day Saints, marriage is monogamous, family-centered, and legally recognized. While plural marriage is an important and complex part of the Church’s history, equating modern Mormonism with polygamy is an inaccurate stereotype.

Misconception 4: Mormons Believe In Earning Salvation Through Works

Many Christians assume that Mormonism teaches salvation by works rather than by grace. This perception often arises from Latter-day Saints’ emphasis on commandments, formal ordinances, and standards of moral living that are seen as strict by some, contrasting with some Christians’ opinions on what being “saved” entails. Are Mormons Christians if they believe works are part of salvation?

Latter-day Saints do believe that Jesus Christ is the only source of salvation, and that no one can be saved without His grace. They teach that because Christ died for humanity’s sins, He makes salvation available for all.

The difference lies in how grace and obedience are understood. Latter-day Saints emphasize that faith in Christ naturally leads to repentance, baptism, and good works. These actions are not seen as replacing grace, but as a faithful response to it that transforms an individual into what Christ wants them to become. 

A helpful analogy is a parent paying for a child’s piano lessons, with the parent representing Christ and the child representing a believer. The lessons have already been paid for by the parent, just like how Christ has already paid the price for the believer’s sins, “saving” them. However, if the child does not practice, the parent’s sacrifice would have been for nothing, as the child never learns to play the piano. Similarly, Latter-day Saints believe that simply being “saved” is not the complete vision Christ has for them. By practicing good works and building a covenant relationship with God, they show gratitude for Christ’s atonement and are eventually refined by His grace into the kind of people who can stand in the presence of God. 

Christians from Reformation traditions may still see this framework as incompatible with doctrines like sola fide (faith alone). However, portraying Mormonism as a system of self-earned salvation misrepresents their beliefs.

Misconception 5: Mormons Believe Heaven Is Getting Your Own Planet

This idea has been perpetuated in jokes for decades, but it’s actually a cartoonish misrepresentation of the LDS doctrine of exaltation. 

In the LDS Church, salvation and exaltation are distinct principles that define their concept of the afterlife. Christ’s atonement makes it possible for almost everyone to have salvation, inheriting a degree of glory according to how faithful they were in life. However, God’s true desire for His children is for them to grow spiritually and become more like Him. This is what is called exaltation, and it’s achieved through making covenants with God, keeping His commandments, and relying on the grace of Jesus Christ to change them into something better. This concept draws on biblical themes such as believers being “heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17).

Some speculative statements by early Church leaders and later cultural interpretations gave rise to the idea of Mormons wanting to get their own planets. The Church has clarified that this is not doctrine, and not how Latter-day Saints understand eternal life. 

In 1 Corinthians 2:9, Paul states, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” Latter-day Saints don’t claim to know what exactly being “heirs of God” entails, but they do believe they will continue having a relationship with worship, growth, and communion with God alongside their eternal families. Reducing all that to a sci-fi vision of planet ownership totally misses the point.

Clarity Before Critique

Traditional Christians and Latter-day Saints may have some important differences in doctrine, but meaningful Christianity vs Mormonism dialogue and mutual respect requires honestly seeking to understand the other’s point of view first.

When Christians understand what Latter-day Saints actually believe, conversations can move beyond ridicule and caricatures and toward productive engagement. In a world increasingly shaped by intolerance and polarization, taking the time to understand those who believe differently can be an act of faithfulness in itself.

About Mormonism Explained

Mormonism Explained is a resource that was designed to provide objective and factual information about Mormonism, its history, doctrines, and policies. Our team of researchers consults experts and primary sources to present factual information on a variety of topics relevant to the Mormon Church.

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