The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) is one of the fastest-growing religious organizations in the world, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Many myths and misconceptions persist about Latter-day Saints (often called Mormons), their beliefs, and their way of life. This article aims to debunk some of the most common myths and clarify what members of the LDS Church actually believe and practice.
Myth #1: Latter-day Saints Are Not Christian
Reality: Latter-day Saints firmly believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Savior of humanity, and the central figure in their faith. The full name of the Church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, underscoring their devotion to Christ.
Latter-day Saints believe in the Bible as scripture and also accept additional scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, which they consider another testament of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon affirms Christ’s divinity, His atonement, and His resurrection. Worship services, prayers, and ordinances within the Church all focus on Christ and His teachings.
Despite these facts, some other Christian denominations argue that Latter-day Saints are not Christian due to doctrinal differences, such as their view of the Godhead as distinct beings rather than a single entity in the traditional Trinitarian sense. However, from an LDS perspective, their faith is entirely centered on Christ and His teachings.
Myth #2: Mormons Still Practice Polygamy
Reality: The LDS Church officially ended the practice of polygamy in 1890 under the direction of then-prophet Wilford Woodruff. The Church reaffirmed its stance in 1904, making it clear that any members who practiced polygamy would be excommunicated.
The confusion persists because some breakaway groups, unaffiliated with the LDS Church, still practice polygamy and sometimes call themselves Mormon. These groups, such as the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), are separate from the mainstream LDS Church.
While polygamy was a part of LDS history, it was never the primary focus of the religion. Today, the LDS Church strictly adheres to monogamy, and members are expected to follow traditional, lawful marriage practices.
Myth #3: Mormons Cannot Drink Caffeine
Reality: The LDS Church follows a health code called the Word of Wisdom, which discourages the consumption of harmful substances. It specifically prohibits alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea (hot drinks). However, the Word of Wisdom does not explicitly forbid caffeine itself.
While many members choose to avoid caffeinated beverages as a personal decision, drinking soda or other caffeinated drinks is not against official Church teachings. In recent years, Church leaders have clarified that caffeine consumption is a personal choice rather than a commandment.
Myth #4: Mormon Temples Are Secret
Reality: LDS temples are not secret, but they are considered sacred. Unlike regular meetinghouses, which are open to the public for Sunday worship and other activities, temples are reserved for special ordinances and are open only to members who meet certain worthiness criteria.
However, before a new temple is dedicated, the Church often holds open houses where anyone—regardless of religion—can tour the temple and learn about its purpose. Once a temple is dedicated, only members in good standing may enter, as these buildings are meant for sacred worship, not general gatherings.
Inside the temple, members participate in ceremonies that focus on eternal families, baptism for the deceased, and making covenants with God. The purpose of these ordinances is to draw closer to God and gain a deeper understanding of His plan for humanity.
Myth #5: Mormons Believe They Will Become Gods
Reality: Latter-day Saints believe in the concept of eternal progression, meaning that faithful individuals can inherit all that God has. However, they do not believe they will replace or surpass God. Instead, they believe they can grow spiritually and become more like God, following His example and living with Him forever.
This belief is based on biblical teachings, such as Romans 8:16-17, which states that believers are “heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ.” While this doctrine differs from traditional Christian views, it does not mean that Latter-day Saints believe they will become independent gods ruling their own universes. They always worship God the Father and Jesus Christ as supreme beings.
Myth #6: The Book of Mormon Replaces the Bible
Reality: The Bible is considered holy scripture by Latter-day Saints, and they frequently study and quote from it. The Book of Mormon is an additional volume of scripture that complements, rather than replaces, the Bible.
Latter-day Saints believe that both books testify of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon contains accounts of His teachings to people in the ancient Americas, while the Bible focuses on His ministry in the Old World. Together, these scriptures provide a fuller picture of Christ’s gospel.
Church leaders encourage members to study both the Bible and the Book of Mormon regularly. The LDS Church also publishes an edition of the King James Bible for its members.
Myth #7: Mormons Are Not Allowed to Ask Questions
Reality: The LDS Church encourages members to seek knowledge, ask questions, and develop their own testimonies of the gospel. The Church places a strong emphasis on personal revelation, meaning that individuals are encouraged to pray, study scriptures, and seek spiritual confirmation of truth.
Church leaders, including past prophets, have frequently taught that questioning and seeking understanding is a vital part of spiritual growth. The Church has also established programs, such as Come, Follow Me, to help members engage in open discussions about doctrine and principles.
Myth #8: Mormons Have Strange Underwear
Reality: Some Latter-day Saints wear temple garments, which are religious underclothes that serve as a reminder of sacred covenants. These garments are not magical or unusual; they are similar in purpose to religious clothing worn in other faiths, such as the Jewish tallit katan or the Catholic scapular.
Temple garments are worn by endowed members of the Church as a private symbol of commitment to God. They are not meant to be displayed publicly, and they serve as a personal and spiritual reminder of faith.
Myth #9: The LDS Church is a Cult
Reality: The term “cult” is often misused to describe religious groups that differ from mainstream Christian traditions. The LDS Church is a well-established, global faith with millions of members and a strong emphasis on family, service, and personal discipleship.
Latter-day Saints actively participate in their communities, engage in humanitarian efforts, and uphold strong moral and ethical values. The Church has a structured leadership system, open teachings, and a commitment to transparency, which distinguishes it from secretive or manipulative groups commonly labeled as cults.
Final Thoughts
Misconceptions about Latter-day Saints often arise from misinformation or lack of firsthand knowledge. The LDS Church is a Christian faith with unique doctrines, but its core mission is to bring people closer to Jesus Christ.
If you have questions about LDS beliefs, the best approach is to speak with a Church member, visit an LDS meetinghouse, or explore official Church resources like churchofjesuschrist.org.
What other myths have you heard about the LDS Church? Let’s continue the conversation and clear up misunderstandings together!