Defining ‘Christian’: An Evangelical Perspective on the Inclusion of Mormons
> The question of who can be rightly called a ‘Christian’ is a deeply significant one that touches on issues of identity, theology, and ecclesiology. When a Mormon asks an evangelical Christian how they define ‘Christian’ and whether they consider Mormons to be Christians, the response is not merely academic; it is a question that goes to the heart of faith and belief.
This article seeks to provide an evangelical Christian response to this question, exploring the biblical criteria for Christian identity and the factors that contribute to the debate over whether the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) falls within the broader Christian tradition.
The Evangelical Christian Definition of ‘Christian’:
– Core Doctrines of Christianity:
Evangelical Christians define a ‘Christian’ based on adherence to certain core doctrines outlined in the Bible. These include belief in one God eternally existing in three persons (the Trinity), the deity and humanity of Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, sinless life, atoning death, bodily resurrection, and His future return. Additionally, Christians are identified by their acceptance of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, apart from works (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
– The Authority of Scripture:
Evangelicals uphold the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and doctrine. A Christian is someone who acknowledges the Bible’s authority and seeks to live in accordance with its teachings.
– The Role of Creeds and Confessions:
Historic Christian creeds, such as the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed, have been used to summarize essential Christian beliefs. While not all evangelical Christians give formal assent to these creeds, they generally affirm the core truths contained within them.
The Question of Whether Mormons are Christians:
– Theological Differences:
The LDS Church has distinct beliefs that differ from historic Christian orthodoxy, such as their understanding of the nature of God, the concept of a restored Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthood, the existence of additional scriptures (e.g., the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price), and the necessity of specific LDS ordinances for salvation. These differences have led many evangelical Christians to conclude that Mormonism falls outside the bounds of traditional Christian orthodoxy.
– The Definition of ‘Christian’ in Practice:
Some evangelicals may use the term ‘Christian’ more inclusively to refer to anyone who professes belief in Jesus Christ, regardless of doctrinal differences. Others reserve the term for those who hold to the essential doctrines as historically understood within Christianity.
– Identity and Self-Understanding:
Mormons identify themselves as Christians and believe in Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world. They see themselves as part of the Christian tradition but with a restored gospel and additional revealed truths.
Engaging in Dialogue:
When discussing the definition of ‘Christian’ with Mormon friends, evangelical Christians can emphasize the importance of love and respect in the conversation. They can explain their commitment to the core doctrines of Christianity as historically understood and the reasons why they may not consider LDS beliefs to align with those doctrines.
Christians can listen to how Mormons describe their faith in Jesus and acknowledge the sincerity of their beliefs, even while expressing theological disagreements. They can also discuss the significance of shared values and common ground in areas of moral teaching and community service.
Conclusion:
The question of whether Mormons are considered Christians by evangelical standards is complex and requires a nuanced response that takes into account biblical doctrine, historical theology, and the self-understanding of individuals within the LDS Church. While evangelical Christians may not recognize Mormonism as part of historic Christian orthodoxy due to significant theological differences, they can engage in respectful dialogue that acknowledges the depth of conviction held by Mormons and seeks to understand their perspective. Ultimately, evangelicals affirm that the definition of ‘Christian’ is rooted in the acceptance of key biblical doctrines and the transformative relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
