Block6 Book Report: Mormonism

Summary

This comprehensive overview of Mormonism explores its origins, beliefs, and practices. Founded by Joseph Smith in the 1830s, the religion emphasizes direct revelation, baptism, and a commitment to creating righteous communities. Despite historical persecution, Mormons have maintained a strong sense of identity, focusing on family values, missionary work, and charity. The religion's doctrines include a unique understanding of God, the afterlife, and the role of modern prophets. Today, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints boasts millions of members worldwide, with many aspects of its faith and culture rooted in biblical and Hebraic traditions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Joseph Smith, born in 1805, is the founder of Mormonism, having received revelations starting at age 14, leading to the establishment of the Church of Christ in 1830.
• 😀 Mormonism's core texts include the Book of Mormon, the Book of Commandments, the Book of Moses, and the Book of Abraham, all derived from Joseph Smith's revelations.
• 😀 The practice of polygamy, once central to Mormonism, was publicly abandoned in 1890 after legal pressure, although it remains a historical element of the faith.
• 😀 Mormons believe in the literal Second Coming of Christ, with the concept of 'Zion' being a gathering place for believers in preparation for Christ's return.
• 😀 The church faced intense persecution, including forced migrations from Missouri and Illinois, before ultimately settling in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847 under Brigham Young.
• 😀 Mormons believe in three distinct beings—God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit—who are united in purpose but not in substance, distinguishing their theology from traditional Trinitarian Christianity.
• 😀 The concept of Eternal Marriage is central to Mormon belief, asserting that marriages are meant to last beyond death, helping to perpetuate the Mormon way of life.
• 😀 Mormons practice a range of sacral rituals, including baptism by submersion, communion, and the laying on of hands to receive the Holy Spirit, which are essential covenants of their faith.
• 😀 Tithing is a significant practice in Mormonism, where members contribute a portion of their income to the church, which also emphasizes missionary work and service to others.
• 😀 Today, the largest Mormon organization, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has nearly 13 million members worldwide, with a growing global presence outside the U.S.

Q & A

Who was the founder of Mormonism, and what was his role?

Joseph Smith was the founder of Mormonism. He became the first prophet of the church, receiving revelations from a young age, and led the church until his death in 1844. Despite being the founder, Jesus Christ is considered the premier figure in Mormon belief.

What was the significance of the Book of Mormon in the founding of Mormonism?

The Book of Mormon is central to Mormon belief. It was written on gold plates, which Joseph Smith found in New York, and it was translated with the help of his wife. The book is considered a key scripture, alongside other writings like the Book of Commandments, Book of Moses, and Book of Abraham.

Why did Mormons face persecution in the early years of their movement?

Mormons faced persecution primarily because of their religious practices, communal lifestyle, and perceived challenges to local and state authorities. They were driven out of multiple settlements due to violent clashes and fears of their growing influence, ultimately leading them to settle in the Salt Lake Valley.

What was the 'City of Zion,' and how did it fit into Mormon belief?

The 'City of Zion' was envisioned by Joseph Smith as a gathering place for all believers, a place of refuge and righteousness in preparation for the Second Coming of Christ. While it was not fully realized before his death, Mormons later realized that Zion could be built in multiple locations, not necessarily in one central city.

How did the Mormon church view the practice of polygamy?

Polygamy was practiced by Joseph Smith and some early Mormons but was officially renounced by the church in 1890. It was originally defended as a religious practice, but the U.S. government outlawed it, leading to the church abandoning the practice in order to gain statehood for Utah.

What is the role of women in Mormonism?

Women play a significant role in Mormonism, with responsibilities such as preaching, praying, and teaching. While traditionally expected to stay at home during their children's early years, many women pursue careers with the church's encouragement. Women are also more active in the church than men in certain areas.

What are the three major covenants in Mormon practice?

The three major covenants in Mormonism are baptism by submersion, communion (the sacrament), and the laying on of hands to receive the Holy Spirit. These are central rituals in the faith.

What is the structure of leadership within the Mormon church?

Mormon leadership is organized with the church president at the top, supported by a council called the First Presidency. Below them is a quorum of 12 apostles, followed by regional councils of 70. There is no professional clergy; local congregations are led by bishops.

How do Mormons view their relationship with modern prophets?

Mormons believe in modern prophets, who they view as divinely inspired leaders continuing the work of past prophets. These prophets provide guidance through direct revelation and are seen as the legitimate successors to the early leaders of the church.

What does the Mormon church teach about the afterlife?

Mormons believe in a three-tiered afterlife, where all people have the opportunity to reach Heaven, though there are different levels of reward. They also teach that the gospel will be preached to the dead, giving them a second chance to accept it.