5 Questions for Mormons

It is always good to have some basic questions to ask a Mormon when the opportunity presents itself. As we listen to the Mormon story we find a religion that challenges the authority of the Bible, the authenticity of the church, the final revelation in Jesus, the assurance of grace and the work of the Cross. Falling back on God’s sure word in the Bible we might reasonably ask:

 

If “All Scripture is God-breathed…so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17), and the Bible ‘contains the fullness of the gospel’ (BOM Introduction) why do we need the Book of Mormon?

If Jesus promised, “the gates of hell will not overcome” His church [not overpower it, resist it, fail to succumb to it, i.e. rob it of its power and authority] (Matthew 16:18) what was Joseph Smith restoring?

If Jesus is the prophet of the last days and God’s clearest declaration of Himself (Hebrews 1:1-4) why does Mormonism give this title to Joseph Smith?

The Bible declares “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works…” (Ephesians 2:8-9) Why does the Book of Mormon say the opposite, “It is by grace we are saved, after all we can do”? (2 Nephi:25:23)

If Jesus “[made] peace through His blood, shed on the Cross” (Colossians 1:20 c.f.2:13) why do Mormons believe it was through His blood shed in the Garden of Gethsemane? (Mosiah 3:7; D&C 19:15-19)

Why not share your thoughts in the comments below? What questions would you ask?