Jesus Christ: A Cornerstone of Latter-day Saint Beliefs

Introduction

Jesus Christ holds a central and pivotal position in the doctrines, practices, and history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Latter-day Saints, also known as Mormons, regard Jesus as the Savior of the world, the Son of God, and the divine Redeemer. Their understanding of Jesus is rooted in the scriptures, including the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and other LDS scriptures.

Jesus’ Role in the Godhead

The Trinity

Unlike some Christian denominations that adhere to the doctrine of the Trinity, Latter-day Saints believe that God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three distinct divine beings. They maintain the belief that Jesus Christ is the Firstborn of the Father in the spirit, and that He is subordinate to the Father in authority and position.

Premortal Existence

Latter-day Saints believe that Jesus existed as a spirit before His mortal birth. He was the preeminent spirit among all of God’s spirit children and was known as Jehovah or the Lord in the premortal realm. He was chosen to be the Savior and Redeemer of mankind.

Jesus’ Mortal Life

Birth and Ministry

According to LDS scripture, Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem. He lived a sinless life and performed many miracles during His earthly ministry. He taught the principles of love, forgiveness, and obedience to God.

Atonement and Resurrection

Latter-day Saints believe that Jesus’ Atonement was an act of infinite and eternal significance. Through His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and His death on the cross, Jesus ransomed mankind from the effects of the Fall and overcame the sting of physical and spiritual death. The Atonement also enables individuals to repent of their sins and experience a change of heart.

After His death, Jesus resurrected with a glorified and perfected body. He appeared to His disciples and others, demonstrating His triumph over death and the reality of eternal life.

Jesus’ Post-Resurrection Ministry

Ministering to the Americas

According to LDS scripture, after His resurrection, Jesus visited the Americas, where He established His Church among the ancient inhabitants. He taught them His gospel, performed miracles, and ordained apostles.

Ascension and Second Coming

After His ministry in the Americas, Jesus ascended into heaven. Latter-day Saints believe that He will return to the earth in the latter days and reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Jesus’ Influence on LDS Culture and Practices

Worship and Ordinances

Jesus Christ is the central focus of LDS worship and ordinances. Latter-day Saints seek to follow His example and live according to His teachings. They participate in ordinances such as baptism, the sacrament (communion), and temple ordinances, which are seen as ways to draw closer to Jesus and experience His grace.

Missionary Work

Latter-day Saints believe that sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ is a fundamental part of their faith. They send missionaries worldwide to preach the principles of salvation and invite others to come unto Christ.

Temple Worship

Temples are sacred buildings in the LDS Church where ordinances essential for eternal salvation are performed. These ordinances include marriage sealings, baptisms for the dead, and other ceremonies that connect individuals to Jesus Christ and their eternal families.

Conclusion

Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the LDS faith. His teachings, Atonement, and example provide the foundation for Latter-day Saint doctrine, practices, and culture. By striving to follow Jesus and live according to His principles, Latter-day Saints believe they can experience eternal joy, peace, and progression in this life and the eternities to come.