Why Mormons

Tag: Book of Mormon

  • Why Do Mormons Believe Jesus Visited the Americas?

    Why Do Mormons Believe Jesus Visited the Americas?

    Jesus Christ declared that He is the Good Shepherd who knows all His sheep. Latter-day Saints believe this promise extends beyond the lands described in the Bible. According to their faith, the resurrected Savior reached people in other parts of the world, including the Americas.

    This belief comes from the Book of Mormon and reflects a conviction that Jesus Christ’s mission was global in scope. Rather than limiting His ministry to one region, Latter-day Saints believe Christ sought to bring hope, healing, and salvation to all of God’s children.

    The Book of Mormon Account

    The Book of Mormon records that after His resurrection in Jerusalem, Jesus Christ appeared to people living in the Americas. During this visit, He taught His gospel, invited individuals to feel the wounds in His hands and feet, healed the sick, and established His Church among them.

    This account is presented as a continuation of Christ’s ministry, not a separate story. The teachings He gives closely resemble those found in the New Testament, emphasizing faith, repentance, baptism, and love for others.

    Purpose of Christ’s Visit

    Latter-day Saints believe Christ’s visit had several purposes. He testified of His divine identity, taught His gospel, established sacred ordinances, and demonstrated His compassion for all people. His appearance also fulfilled prophecies found in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon.

    Christ as Savior of the Whole World

    Central to this belief is the conviction that Jesus Christ is the Savior of all humanity. His visit to the Americas reinforces the idea that God’s love and plan of salvation extend to every nation, culture, and people.

    Biblical Support for a Global Ministry

    Although the Bible does not explicitly record Christ visiting the Americas, Latter-day Saints believe it contains indications of a broader ministry. Jesus spoke of having “other sheep” who were not of the same fold, suggesting that His work extended beyond those living in Israel.

    Latter-day Saints believe the Book of Mormon offers additional insight into this global ministry without contradicting biblical teachings.

    Prophecies of the Resurrected Christ

    The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ continued His work after His resurrection. Latter-day Saints see Christ’s post-resurrection appearances as evidence that His mission did not end at the tomb, but expanded in power and reach.

    Harmony Between the Bible and the Book of Mormon

    Latter-day Saints believe the Bible and the Book of Mormon stand together as witnesses of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon does not replace the Bible; instead, it adds another testimony of Christ’s divinity and mission.

    Both books teach the same core principles: faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, obedience to God, and love for others. This harmony strengthens belief in their shared divine origin.

    Christ-Centered Teachings

    One reason Latter-day Saints accept the Book of Mormon account is its strong focus on Jesus Christ. His teachings in the Americas mirror those in the New Testament, emphasizing humility, forgiveness, charity, and covenant faithfulness.

    An Invitation to Come Unto Christ

    Throughout the Book of Mormon, Christ invites people to come unto Him. This invitation echoes His words in the Bible, reinforcing the belief that the same Savior was ministering to different peoples across the world.

    Common Misunderstandings

    Some believe that accepting Christ’s visit to the Americas diminishes the importance of the Bible. Latter-day Saints believe the opposite—that it strengthens biblical testimony by highlighting Christ’s universal mission.

    Others assume this belief separates Latter-day Saints from Christianity. In reality, Latter-day Saints see this doctrine as deeply Christian, centered entirely on Jesus Christ as Savior and Redeemer.

    Why This Belief Matters

    Belief that Jesus Christ visited the Americas reinforces the truth that His love and salvation are meant for all people. It helps believers feel included in Christ’s ministry and reassures them that God is aware of every nation and culture.

    This doctrine encourages Latter-day Saints to see themselves as part of a global family of God, united through faith in Jesus Christ.

    An Invitation

    Latter-day Saints invite all people to learn about Jesus Christ, study His teachings, and seek Him through prayer. They believe that as individuals sincerely seek truth, God will help them come to know His Son.

    Sources

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Book of Mormon
    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org

    Book of Mormon Central / Scripture Central
    https://scripturecentral.org

    Pearl of Great Price Central
    https://www.pearlofgreatpricecentral.org

    Witnesses of the Book of Mormon
    https://witnessesofthebookofmormon.org

  • Why Do Mormons Believe in Continuing Revelation?

    Why Do Mormons Believe in Continuing Revelation?

    Throughout history, God has guided His people by speaking to them. Latter-day Saints believe this divine pattern did not end with the Bible, but continues today. This belief in continuing revelation reflects the conviction that God is still aware of the world’s needs and actively involved in the lives of His children.

    Rather than seeing God as distant or silent, Latter-day Saints believe He continues to offer guidance, correction, and comfort—both to individuals and to His Church—while remaining perfectly consistent with eternal truth.

    What Is Continuing Revelation?

    Continuing revelation is the belief that God reveals His will through inspiration. Latter-day Saints believe this guidance can come through scripture, prayer, the influence of the Holy Ghost, and through prophets called to lead the Church.

    This belief does not suggest that God changes His fundamental teachings. Instead, revelation is understood as God providing direction and understanding appropriate to different times, situations, and individual needs.

    Biblical Foundations for Revelation

    The Bible presents a consistent pattern of God revealing His will as circumstances unfold. Prophets in the Old Testament received revelation suited to their generation, and the New Testament records continued divine guidance through apostles after the ministry of Jesus Christ.

    Scripture teaches that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Latter-day Saints understand this to mean that God’s nature is unchanging, even as He continues to communicate with humanity.

    Revelation Through the Holy Spirit

    Jesus Christ taught that the Holy Ghost would guide His followers into all truth. Latter-day Saints believe this promise remains in effect today. Through the Holy Spirit, individuals can receive truth, comfort, and understanding directly from God.

    Personal Revelation in Scripture

    Biblical figures such as Peter and Paul received personal revelation that guided their choices and ministry. Latter-day Saints view these experiences as examples of how God continues to guide sincere seekers in every age.

    Prophetic Revelation for the Church

    In addition to personal revelation, Latter-day Saints believe God guides His Church through living prophets. These prophets seek divine direction to help the Church remain centered on Jesus Christ while responding to the needs of a changing world.

    Revelation given to prophets is expected to align with scripture and to reflect God’s will rather than personal opinion.

    Revelation Through Councils

    Important decisions within the Church are often made through councils of leaders who seek revelation together. Latter-day Saints see this as a continuation of the pattern used by early Christian apostles.

    Unity and Confirmation

    Revelation for the Church is typically confirmed through unity among leaders and through spiritual confirmation felt by members. This shared witness strengthens faith and promotes harmony within the Church.

    Personal Revelation in Daily Life

    Latter-day Saints believe God also offers personal guidance to individuals. This may include help with family decisions, spiritual growth, and everyday challenges.

    Personal revelation is understood to operate within God’s commandments and does not override the revelation given to prophets for the Church as a whole.

    Learning to Recognize Revelation

    Revelation often comes quietly—through peaceful feelings, clear thoughts, or gentle impressions. Learning to recognize this guidance requires patience, faith, and a sincere desire to follow God’s will.

    Role of Prayer and Scripture Study

    Prayer and scripture study play a central role in receiving revelation. As individuals consistently seek God through these practices, they become more receptive to His guidance.

    Common Misunderstandings

    Some believe that continuing revelation means doctrine changes frequently. Latter-day Saints believe eternal doctrines remain constant, while revelation helps apply those truths to new circumstances.

    Another misunderstanding is that revelation replaces personal responsibility. In Latter-day Saint belief, revelation works together with study, effort, and wise decision-making.

    Why This Belief Matters

    Belief in continuing revelation reassures Latter-day Saints that God is aware of their lives and willing to guide them. It provides comfort during uncertainty and direction during difficult decisions.

    More importantly, continuing revelation invites individuals to build a personal relationship with God and to follow Jesus Christ with faith in every generation.

    An Invitation

    Latter-day Saints invite everyone to seek God’s guidance personally through prayer and scripture study. We believe God still speaks today and desires to guide all who sincerely seek Him.

    Sources

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Revelation
    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org

    Gospel Topics Essays – Revelation
    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays

    Doctrine and Covenants Central
    https://doctrineandcovenantscentral.org

    Scripture Central
    https://scripturecentral.org