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