Navigating the 'Are Latter-day Saints Christian?' Question – and Why It Matters

Hey everyone. As returned missionaries, we know firsthand the questions that can come our way – the ones that feel a little tricky, a little vulnerable. The work isn’t always easy, and sometimes it requires us to articulate our beliefs in ways that resonate with those outside the fold. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about a question that keeps popping up: “Are Latter-day Saints Christians?”

I recently had a really insightful conversation on the Thoughtful Faith podcast with Ruslan KD, a Christian YouTuber with a huge following. He’s genuinely curious and thoughtful, and the discussion we had was pretty revealing. It’s a question that’s been circulating online, and it gave me a chance to reflect on how we, as Latter-day Saints, can navigate these conversations with grace and clarity.

What struck me most wasn't the question itself, but Ruslan's approach. He pressed hard, exploring the criteria for Christian identity within a Protestant framework. He challenged us to define those beliefs and, importantly, acknowledge that even within Christianity, there’s a wide spectrum of understanding.

I encourage you to listen to the full episode; it's a fascinating deep dive. Ruslan makes a point about “fruit” – the observable outcomes of faith, like strong families and success in the marketplace. He acknowledges that Latter-day Saints often demonstrate admirable qualities. But the central question remains: Is it the same Jesus? Do we share the same understanding of His Atonement and His role in salvation?

As Latter-day Saints, we know the answer is a resounding yes. We believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, whose sacrifice makes our salvation possible. We believe in the restored gospel through prophets, and we strive to follow His teachings, not just in belief, but in action. Our faith isn't just about what we believe; it’s about how we live. James’s words – “faith without works is dead” – ring true for us.

Now, let's be realistic. Not everyone is going to be convinced. Some will hold firm to their preconceived notions. But our responsibility isn't to force belief; it's to share our testimony with love and sincerity, allowing the Spirit to testify to each individual. That’s where our preparation comes in.

How do we prepare for these kinds of conversations? First, really know your own beliefs. Deeply understand the Articles of Faith, the First Presidency’s messages, and the teachings in Preach My Gospel. Second, be familiar with common questions and concerns – Davee can be a huge help here! Davee, our AI Investigator, is trained to walk through these challenging questions with you and help you formulate thoughtful, scriptural responses. He’s a valuable tool in any disciple’s arsenal.

Think about how you’d explain the Restoration, the Book of Mormon, and the role of prophets. Practice explaining your testimony simply and clearly. Remember, humility and a genuine desire to help others come unto Christ are more powerful than any perfectly crafted argument.

This isn’t just about defending our faith; it’s about inviting others to experience the joy and peace that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s about being true disciples, sharing the gospel with confidence and love, wherever we are – online, in our communities, and with those we meet along the way. Every member, a disciple, all the time!

What are your experiences navigating these kinds of discussions? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. And if you’re looking for a deeper dive into scriptural understanding, consider joining one of our Social Scripture Study groups in HolyPlaces. It’s a great way to connect with other disciples and strengthen your testimony.

Let’s continue to support each other in this vital work. And remember, we’re all in this together. Let’s strive to be Christlike in all that we do.