AboutMichael Kelley Expertise For a different viewpoint on Mormonism for your questions, try me. I am a staunch believer in the Book of Mormon and belong to another church (the Church of Christ)that is set up identically to the Biblical church. If there are things about traditional Mormonism that trouble you or you have questions about, just ask and you might find the answers from the Book of Mormon to be quite surprising. I have been studying the scriptures diligently for 16 years under the school of hard knocks... I may not have all of the answers but will sure go find them if I don`t. I`m strongest on Biblical and Book of Mormon doctrines, and am also somewhat familiar with Mormon history and archaeology.
Question where can I get more information on your church?
Answer Hi Zach,
I will be happy to answer your question. Please note that I am ex-LDS and belong to the original Church of Christ that believes in the Book of Mormon.
In a nutshell we are based on the Biblical and/or Book of Mormon Church of Christ (both books teach the same gospel). Some of our fundamental beliefs are:
1. We belief in One God who is the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost
2. We believe in the scriptures contained in the Bible and Book of Mormon.
3. We believe in repenting of our sins and having them washed away by baptism by immersion.
4. We receive the Holy Ghost by Laying of Hands
5. We practice the sacrament typically using unleavened bread and wine (grape juice).
6. We believe in the same Biblical spiritual gifts such as healings, prophecy, tongues etc.
7. We believe we must endure to the end and will be judged according to our works at the judgment day.
8. We believe in a divinely called and ordained ministry.
What we do NOT believe in that some Restoration factions practice or used to practice.
1. Polygamy, never ever practiced it, the Book of Mormon terms it a whoredom and abomination before God.
2. Racial discrimination, the Book of Mormon states all are equal in God's eyes.
3. Celestial Marriage, the Utah LDS practice this, a temple marriage rite that is supposed to make one into a "God". Not once mentioned in the Book of Mormon.
4. Baptism for the Dead, the Utah LDS still practice being baptized for dead people so that they can have salvation. The Book of Mormon teaches against this.
5. 1st Presidency... the Utah LDS people have this Pope like office as the head of their church. The Bible and Book of Mormon states Christ is the head of the church, and only 12 Apostles were chosen as "overseers" of the church.
There are many other lesser differences, this should get you started in your research. Feel free to ask other questions or for specific squipture cites if you like.
