Knowing how to approach a Mormon is an important apologetic skill to learn for a Christian. Mormons, also known as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, are a growing religious group in the world today. While some may view Mormons as just another branch of Christianity, it is important to recognize the vast differences in their belief system. If you are seeking to understand or evangelize to a Mormon, it is important to approach them with compassion, understanding, and most importantly, with the truth of God’s Word.

False Teachings of the Mormon Church

One of the most common false teachings of the Mormon Church is the belief that they are the only true church on earth. Mormons believe that their church was restored to the earth in the 19th century by Joseph Smith after a period of apostasy that occurred after Christ’s death. They believe that Smith was given divine revelations and was chosen by God to restore the true church.

This belief is in direct contradiction to the teachings of the Bible. Jesus himself said in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” The Bible also teaches in 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.” Mormons cannot be the only true church if they do not accept that Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father.

Another false teaching of the Mormon Church is the belief in their own version of God. Mormons believe in a Godhead consisting of three separate beings – God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. They also believe that God was once a man and that humans have the potential to become gods themselves.

Again, this belief contradicts the teachings of the Bible. In Isaiah 44:6, God declares, “I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.” This means that there is only one true God, and He has always been God, and always will be. Isaiah 43:10 reiterates that there is no other God besides Him. The Bible also teaches in Psalm 90:2 that God has always been God, “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

How to Approach a Mormon

Now that we have debunked some of the false teachings of the Mormon Church, let’s discuss how to approach a Mormon with the truth of God’s Word. It is important to remember that Mormons are typically very committed to their faith and will be defensive if confronted with what they view as criticism.

To approach a Mormon, it is important to establish a relationship of trust and respect. Show interest in their belief system and ask questions about their faith. Understand that Mormons believe they are doing the right thing, and it is your job to present the truth of God’s Word in a way that is respectful and loving.

When discussing the truths of God’s Word, use the Bible as your source of truth. Mormons believe in the Bible, although they also believe in additional scriptures such as the Book of Mormon. When it comes to discussing teachings in the Bible, it is important to use the ESV translation as it is seen as the most accurate and authoritative in evangelical circles.

Rebuttal to Common Arguments

As you begin to engage in a conversation about God’s Word with a Mormon, you may encounter some common arguments. Let’s review some of these arguments and provide rebuttals using God’s Word.

Argument 1: “The Book of Mormon is true, and it complements the Bible.”

Rebuttal: The Bible warns against adding or taking away from its words in Deuteronomy 4:2 and Revelation 22:18-19. The Book of Mormon contradicts the Bible in many places, such as its view of the Godhead and the nature of salvation. It is important to remember that the Bible is the authoritative Word of God and should be our ultimate source of truth.

Argument 2: “Mormonism is a Christian denomination.”

Rebuttal: While Mormons claim to be Christian, their doctrinal beliefs differ from orthodox Christianity in fundamental ways. Their belief in multiple gods, the potential for humans to become gods, and the authority of additional scriptures outside of the Bible places them outside of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.

Argument 3: “Mormons are good people and do good things, so they must be on the right path.”

Rebuttal: Good works alone do not secure salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” We are not saved by what we do, but by faith alone.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the false teachings that Mormons may have regarding the relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ. Mormons believe that Jesus and God the Father are separate beings and that God the Father was once a man who attained godhood. However, in John 10:30, Jesus says, “I and the Father are one.” And in Philippians 2:6, it states that Jesus “was in the form of God.” These verses make it clear that Jesus is fully equal to God the Father and has always been divine.

Approaching a Mormon can seem overwhelming, but with a heart for understanding and the truth of God’s Word, we can engage in meaningful conversations. By being prepared to address common arguments and false teachings, we can gently and lovingly share the truth of who God is and what He has done for us through Jesus Christ. At the end of the day, our goal is not to win arguments or prove ourselves right, but to share the hope of salvation through faith in Christ.

For more insight into Mormon beliefs, read this article on gotquestions.org. Be sure to check out my Apologetics page for additional resources.