The Second Great Awakening and Joseph Smith's Vision
Joseph Smith's Early Life and Religious Upbringing
Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in Vermont. Growing up during the Second Great Awakening, a period of religious revival in America, he experienced a time of intense spiritual ferment. This was when many religious denominations sought new followers. Smith's family frequently changed churches, contributing to his spiritual confusion. Historian Jon Butler highlights that this environment significantly influenced Smith's religious pursuits, stating, "The Second Great Awakening set the stage for a unique expression of American religion."
The First Vision
In 1820, Smith claimed to have a transformative vision. He reported seeing God and Jesus Christ, who directed him not to join any existing church. This "First Vision" became a cornerstone of his faith. It signified a new understanding of God and personal revelation, influencing many future teachings within Mormonism. According to scholar Richard L. Bushman, "This vision marked the beginning of a religious movement that would reshape American spiritual life."
The Book of Mormon's Discovery and Translation
The pivotal moment for Mormonism was the discovery of the Book of Mormon. In 1823, Smith was visited by an angel named Moroni, who told him about golden plates buried nearby. After years of preparation, Smith translated the plates into what is now known as the Book of Mormon, published in 1830. Since its release, over 190 million copies have circulated worldwide, presenting a new narrative of ancient American prophets.
The Establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Early Church Organization and Growth
In April 1830, Smith and his followers formally established the LDS Church. They organized the church's structure, appointing apostles, and setting foundational doctrines. One key aspect was the belief in modern-day prophets.
Early Converts and Missionary Work
One notable early convert was Samuel Smith, Joseph Smith's brother. He played a vital role in spreading the faith through mission work. During the church's early years, members actively sought converts, resulting in remarkable growth and diversity in the congregation.
Challenges and Persecution
However, the LDS community faced significant challenges. Early Mormons experienced extreme persecution, including violence and expulsion from towns. For example, in Missouri, tensions escalated to violence, leading to the 1838 Mormon War. By 1839, thousands were forced to flee their homes.
The Move West: From Nauvoo to Salt Lake City
Nauvoo and the Illinois Era
In 1839, Mormons settled in Nauvoo, Illinois. They built a thriving community, but the area's non-Mormon residents soon grew hostile. Conflicts intensified, culminating in the community's expulsion.
The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith
Tragically, on June 27, 1844, Joseph Smith was killed by an angry mob while imprisoned in Carthage, Illinois. His death deeply affected the Mormon community, leading many to view him as a martyr and prophet.
The Trek West
In search of safety, Mormons began a difficult westward journey to Salt Lake City in 1846. They faced harsh conditions, including rough terrain and limited supplies. One poignant example is the 1847 journey led by Brigham Young, where the group encountered snowstorms and starvation.
The Development of Mormon Theology and Practice
Key Doctrines and Beliefs
Mormonism is characterized by unique beliefs regarding the nature of God and salvation. Members view God as a distinct being with physical form. They emphasize personal revelation and the importance of temple worship, which connects them with the divine.
Polygamy and its Impact
Polygamy was practiced in the early days of Mormonism, first introduced in the 1840s. It was believed to be a religious requirement for some. However, it sparked controversy and legal issues, eventually leading to its formal abandonment in 1890. Historian Todd M. Compton has established that at the height of this practice, around 28% of church members participated in polygamous marriages.
Social Structure and Community Life
Mormon communities operate cohesively, emphasizing communal living. Members often engage in cooperative projects, like the construction of the Nauvoo Temple, which became an enduring symbol of their faith and dedication.
Mormonism Today: Legacy and Influence
Global Expansion and Modern Challenges
Today, the LDS Church boasts more than 16 million members across the globe. As it continues to expand, the church faces modern challenges, including secularism and internal diversity.
Mormon Contributions to Society
The LDS Church actively contributes to education and humanitarian efforts. For example, the church runs thousands of educational institutions and is heavily involved in disaster relief worldwide. Their charity initiatives serve millions, showcasing their commitment to community welfare.
Actionable Tips
To learn more about Mormonism, consider visiting official LDS websites, reading the Book of Mormon, or attending a local church event. Engaging with the faith directly can provide deeper insight into its beliefs and practices.
Conclusion
The origins of Mormonism involve a fascinating interplay of historical events and theological development. From Joseph Smith's revelations to the challenging journey westward, understanding these elements is crucial in appreciating the faith's significance. Mormonism's impact on religion and society remains profound, highlighting how a single vision can inspire millions worldwide.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints calls itself the restored church of Jesus Christ. What does that mean, and why do Mormons talk so much about it?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon) is a restorational, rather than reformational, Christian church. Mormons believe that the world was in apostasy, missing both priesthood authority and vital components of religious truth, until both were restored by God through Joseph Smith in 1830.
The LDS church was organized in 1830 by a man named Joseph Smith, Jr. in New York. Smith said that he had received divine visitations, through which he learned that the complete gospel as established by Jesus Christ was no longer on the earth and that God was calling him as a prophet to restore lost truths.
Worldwide Christian Apostasy Made Restoration Necessary
Christianity as Smith knew it in 1830 was fragmented into many different sects and denominations. But when Jesus Christ walked the earth, He established one true church. He ordained apostles (see Mark 3:14), prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. (see Ephesians 4:11)
Mormon doctrine holds that there was always meant to be only one Christian church, but after the death of Jesus and His disciples, the fullness of the truth was lost. This is known as the Great Apostasy. Without a prophet to guide the church and correct errors, parts of the gospel were changed or forgotten. Eventually different denominations began to appear as individuals interpreted the scriptures differently.
The Priesthood – The Authority to Act in God’s Name
Priesthood authority is also believed to have died along with Christ’s disciples. Former LDS Church president Gordon B. Hinckley explained that the priesthood is “a delegation of divine authority” to act in God’s name, performing baptisms and so on. It is “the only power on the earth that reaches beyond the veil of death… Without it there could be a church in name only, [a church] lacking authority to administer in the things of God.”
Mormons don’t believe that valid priesthood power can come from religious education or from a sense of inner calling alone. They believe it can only be conferred to a worthy person by the laying on of hands by someone who has priesthood authority himself (see Numbers 27:18-23.) Mormons believe that the priesthood, once lost, was restored to the earth in 1829 when John the Baptist and later Peter, James, and John appeared to confer the priesthood to Joseph Smith.
Church official Jeffrey R. Holland says the priesthood is “indispensable to the true Church of God,” and former church president David O. McKay called it the “most distinguishing feature of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”
Also Read
- Mormons-Five Popular Myths about Mormons
- Mormon Doctrine of Polygamy
Led by a Mormon Prophet Today
Mormons believe that God has always and will always lead His true church with a prophet to act as His mouthpiece, similar to Moses or Noah in the Old Testament. Since the restoration of the church in 1830, there has always been an LDS prophet who receives revelation from God and guides the church. Continuing revelation has given the church:
- Additional scriptures like the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants;
- The power to seal families together for eternity (not just until death do they part);
- Correction of incorrect doctrines like the Trinity, infant baptism, and baptism by sprinkling rather than immersion, and;
- Additional knowledge about the pre-existence, the afterlife, and humankind’s relationship to God.
Only One True Church
All denominations have pieces of religious truth, and the world is full of good and faithful people that belong to many different churches. But Mormons believe that only the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has the full and complete truth, in addition to valid priesthood power and a living prophet.
Many people wonder why Mormon missionaries approach other Christians with the news of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It is because priesthood power is believed to reside in (and only in) the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. People of all faiths are invited to be baptized into the LDS church by the proper priesthood authority and build upon the religious truths they already know with the ones restored by modern revelation.
