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Although the LDS Church has never officially adopted a doctrine of soteriology,[67] most Mormons accept the doctrine of salvation formulated by B. H. Roberts, John A. Widstoe, and James E. Talmage in the early 20th century.[68] In contrast to early Mormons, modern Mormons generally reject the idea of original sin.[69] The Fall of Man is viewed not as a curse but as an opportunity.[70] Mormons believe they must not only have faith and repent but also be baptized (by immersion and by a Mormon priest) and bring forth good works.[71] Mormons consider their weekly Eucharist (the Sacrament) as a means of renewing their baptism and being repeatedly cleansed from sin. Although the grace of Jesus plays some role in salvation, each Mormon must "work out his own salvation."[72] Mormons believe that people not baptized during their lifetime may accept salvation in the afterlife through the Mormon practice of baptism for the dead.[32] Although the Book of Mormon rejected the doctrine of universal reconciliation, Smith later taught that damnation was a temporary state from which the wicked would ultimately escape after they had paid for their sins, to be resurrected into the lowest of three glorious heavens.[31] Mormonism takes an extreme view of Christian perfection,[73] asserting that through the grace of Jesus, Mormons may become perfectly sanctified and thereby literally become gods or achieve Exaltation.[74] To achieve Exaltation, Mormons must remain obedient to the teachings of Jesus, receive all the ordinances or Sacraments, which includes baptism, confirmation, receive the Melchizedek priesthood (for males), the Endowment, and being sealed to one's spouse.[33] To "make sure" the election of believers, Smith introduced a second anointing ritual,[75] whose participants, upon continued obedience, were sealed to Exaltation. |
Different from Christianity, but I wouldn't call it a cult.
