The question “Why do Mormons oppose same-sex marriage?” is frequently asked in discussions involving religion, culture, law, and human rights. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called Mormons, hold a distinctive view on marriage that is rooted in theology, scripture, and an eternal understanding of family life.
Latter-day Saints oppose same-sex marriage because they believe marriage between a man and a woman is a divinely established institution that plays a central role in God’s plan for humanity. This belief is not primarily cultural or political, but theological. It is based on their understanding of scripture, the doctrine of eternal families, and the role marriage plays in spiritual growth and eternal progression.
At the same time, the Church teaches respect, compassion, and kindness toward all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. Latter-day Saints are instructed to treat every person as a child of God, deserving of dignity, love, and respect. Opposition to same-sex marriage as a religious doctrine does not equate to hatred, rejection, or mistreatment of individuals.
Understanding this belief requires looking beyond surface-level assumptions and examining the deeper spiritual framework that shapes Latter-day Saint teachings on marriage, family, moral agency, and eternal purpose.
Marriage in God’s Plan
Latter-day Saints believe that marriage between a man and a woman was instituted by God and is essential to His plan for the happiness and progression of His children. Marriage is not viewed merely as a social arrangement or legal contract, but as a sacred institution with spiritual and eternal significance.
According to Church teachings, marriage provides the foundation for family life, the nurturing of children, and the development of qualities such as love, sacrifice, responsibility, and commitment. These elements are believed to be vital not only for society, but for individual spiritual growth.
Marriage is understood as part of a divine design that predates modern culture and politics. This understanding strongly influences why Latter-day Saints oppose redefining marriage in ways that differ from what they believe God has revealed.
Complementary Roles
A key element of Latter-day Saint belief is that men and women have complementary roles that work together within marriage. These roles are not seen as identical, but as mutually supportive and interdependent.
Marriage between a man and a woman is believed to unite complementary physical, emotional, and spiritual capacities that enable the creation and nurturing of family life. This complementary relationship is seen as uniquely suited to childbearing and parenting, which are central to God’s plan.
This belief does not imply superiority of one gender over another. Rather, it emphasizes cooperation, partnership, and shared responsibility within the family.
Covenant, Not Just Contract
In Latter-day Saint doctrine, marriage is viewed as a covenant, not merely a contract. A contract is an agreement between individuals, while a covenant is a sacred promise made with God.
Marriage covenants carry spiritual responsibilities and are believed to invite divine blessings when honored faithfully. This covenantal view of marriage reinforces its sacred nature and eternal significance.
Because marriage is seen as a covenant ordained by God, changes to its definition are approached with caution and reverence rather than cultural adaptation.
Eternal Family Doctrine
One of the most distinctive beliefs of Latter-day Saints is the doctrine of eternal families. Members believe that family relationships can continue beyond death through sacred covenants made with God.
Marriage between a man and a woman is believed to be essential to this eternal family structure. It is through this union that families can be sealed together for eternity, allowing relationships to extend beyond mortal life.
This eternal perspective significantly shapes the Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage, as marriage is understood not only in terms of mortal life but as part of God’s eternal plan.
Marriage and Eternity
Latter-day Saints believe that marriage is not limited to earthly existence. Through sacred ordinances performed in temples, husbands and wives can be sealed together for eternity.
This belief distinguishes Latter-day Saint views from purely civil definitions of marriage. While civil marriage addresses legal and social concerns, eternal marriage is believed to have spiritual and eternal implications.
From this perspective, redefining marriage affects not only social structures but also theological understanding of eternal progression and family relationships.
Focus on God’s Plan
Teachings about marriage within the Church are rooted in theology rather than social trends. Members believe that doctrine is revealed by God through prophets and is not determined by changing cultural norms or public opinion.
This focus on God’s plan explains why Church teachings remain consistent even as societal views on marriage evolve. Faithfulness to divine revelation is prioritized over conformity to social pressure.
Distinction Between Belief and Civil Law
Latter-day Saints recognize the legal reality of same-sex marriage in many countries and societies. The Church acknowledges that civil governments have the authority to define marriage for legal purposes.
At the same time, the Church maintains its religious doctrine regarding marriage. Opposing same-sex marriage as a matter of faith does not mean denying the legal rights or human dignity of individuals.
The Church has publicly supported efforts to protect individuals from discrimination, harassment, and violence, regardless of sexual orientation.
Religious Belief Versus Public Policy
Church doctrine addresses religious marriage, not personal worth or dignity. Latter-day Saints are taught that every individual has inherent value as a child of God.
While the Church teaches its beliefs about marriage, it does not seek to control personal lives or force religious standards on those who do not share its faith.
This distinction between religious belief and civil law is often misunderstood, leading to assumptions that opposition to same-sex marriage is synonymous with intolerance.
Respect and Compassion for All
A central teaching of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is that all people are children of God. This belief underpins the Church’s emphasis on love, respect, and compassion for everyone.
Members are instructed to avoid judgment, hostility, or discrimination toward individuals who experience same-sex attraction. The Church explicitly teaches that same-sex attraction itself is not a sin.
Moral accountability, according to Church doctrine, focuses on behavior rather than feelings or inclinations.
Dignity and Belonging
Latter-day Saints teach that everyone is welcome to worship, attend meetings, and participate in Church life to the extent they choose. Individuals are encouraged to feel a sense of belonging within their communities.
Church leaders frequently emphasize the importance of creating welcoming and supportive environments, especially for those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood.
Respect for individual dignity is considered an essential expression of Christlike discipleship.
Christlike Love
Members are encouraged to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who taught love, compassion, and kindness toward all people. Christlike love includes listening, understanding, and showing empathy, even when beliefs differ.
This emphasis on love does not require abandoning religious convictions, but it does require treating others with respect and humanity.
Moral Agency and Personal Choice
Moral agency is a foundational principle in Latter-day Saint theology. Individuals are believed to have the God-given ability to make choices and are accountable for those choices.
While the Church teaches its doctrine on marriage and family, it does not compel belief or behavior. Individuals are free to accept or reject Church teachings according to their conscience.
Agency is respected as an essential component of God’s plan, even when individuals make choices that differ from Church standards.
Teaching Without Coercion
Latter-day Saints are taught to share their beliefs through persuasion, example, and kindness rather than compulsion or force.
Faith is viewed as meaningful only when chosen freely. This approach reinforces respect for individual autonomy while maintaining doctrinal integrity.
Ongoing Dialogue and Understanding
Church leaders have acknowledged that issues surrounding marriage, family, and sexuality are complex and deeply personal. Members are encouraged to engage in thoughtful dialogue, especially within families and communities.
Listening, learning, and empathy are emphasized as essential tools for navigating differences with compassion and understanding.
Navigating Complex Realities
Latter-day Saints practice their faith within diverse and changing social contexts. They are encouraged to balance faithfulness to doctrine with kindness and understanding toward those who hold different beliefs.
This approach recognizes the reality of pluralistic societies while maintaining commitment to religious principles.
Common Misunderstandings
One common misunderstanding is that opposition to same-sex marriage implies hatred or rejection. Latter-day Saints consistently emphasize that love, respect, and inclusion are central to their faith.
Another misconception is that Church doctrine will change based on social pressure. Members believe that doctrine is revealed by God and is not determined by popular opinion or cultural trends.
Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why Latter-day Saints maintain their beliefs while seeking peaceful coexistence with those who disagree.
Why This Belief Matters
Beliefs about marriage shape family life, religious practice, and eternal perspective. For Latter-day Saints, maintaining their understanding of marriage reflects faithfulness to God’s revealed plan.
This belief influences how families are formed, how children are raised, and how individuals understand their eternal purpose.
At the same time, Latter-day Saints seek to live peacefully, respectfully, and compassionately alongside those who hold different beliefs. They strive to balance conviction with kindness, doctrine with dignity, and faith with love.
Sources
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Marriage
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org
Church News – Marriage and Family Teachings
https://www.thechurchnews.com
Doctrine and Covenants Central – Family Doctrine
https://doctrineandcovenantscentral.org
Scripture Central
https://scripturecentral.org