Mormon Beliefs
Mormons believe in many things that many Christians would find familiar. The first principles of the gospel, the fourth article of Mormon basic belief tells us, are faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentence, baptism, and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Only the last principle, likely, is unfamiliar.
This is how it is with much of Mormon belief - Christian belief, but more of it. Precepts that many other Christians wouldn’t even think of are established as part of the Mormon religion. The gift of the Holy Ghost is mentioned in the Bible, but Mormons profess to hold the gift. They believe that the Lord has given unto them the full truth - that which seems unfamiliar is not false, but more truth than most people are used to.
Do Mormons use other scripture beside the Book of Mormon? The Book of Mormon, to reiterate, stands beside the Bible and does not replace it. So Mormons use the Bible - they also use two other books as their core scriptural work: the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price.
What do Mormons believe about faith? Mormons believe that faith is an active choice and a necessary one. We need faith in Christ to follow him.
What do Mormons believe about chastity? The power to have children is seen as a sacred one that should only be used within marriage.
What do Mormons believe about family? The family is the key unit of life and society, both on this earth and in the eternities. Mormons believe in and strive for eternal families.
How do Mormons pray? Mormons pray much as any Christian would, but they put a particular focus on actually communing with God, instead of repeating the same words.
How do Mormons feel about service? Christ served His followers and His great Atonement was a service to the entire world. Mormons count service a blessing and a privilege.
What is a testimony? A testimony is what a person believes and professes. This is particularly important in the Mormon faith and members are encouraged to come to their own testimonies of truth and to keep them strong.
What is the Plan of Salvation? Mormons believe that God wishes to bring to pass our eternal life and our happiness, of which the Atonement and Resurrection was a key part. He wishes to give us every opportunity to come unto Him.
What is the gift of the Holy Ghost? The Holy Ghost can touch anyone. But in Mormon belief, faithful members can be blessed with His constant companionship and guidance.
Why do Mormons pay tithing? There are no paid clergy in the Mormon Church. Every member gives ten percent of their income for the good of the Church as a whole - tithing funds temples and Church programs, among other things. But this is not as important as the principle - all things belong to the Lord and He requires only ten percent of us.
What is the Word of Wisdom? The Word of Wisdom is the Mormon code of health. Rather famously, Mormons don’t drink, smoke, or drink coffee or tea.