Mormons Believe in Jesus Christ
[Note: This post describes some of the basic beliefs of Mormons about Jesus Christ. It is not comprehensive. Also, the artwork shown here are merely depictions of what He might look like.]
Many different names are used in the Bible in referring to Jesus Christ, including:
- Jehovah (see Isaiah 12:2 and 26:4)
- Immanuel (see Isaiah 7:14)
- Lord (see Genesis 2:4)
- Prince of Peace (see Isaiah 9:6)
- Messias or Messiah (see John 1:41, 4:25)
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul teaches about Jesus Christ:
Giving thanks unto the Father…Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. (Colossians 1:12-17)
Paul describes Jesus as:
- The firstborn Son of the Father
- One who allows us to be forgiven of our sins
- Being in the image of his Father
- The creator of all things in heaven and earth
- Having great power
Because Jesus Christ was born spiritually before any of us, He is often referred to as the Firstborn Son of God. Because we also were born of God spiritually, we can consider Him our brother, even though he is more holy and powerful than us. He was also born physically; God was his Father and Mary his mother. Living on the earth allowed him to experience the temptations and challenges of this world.
Depiction of Mary and Joseph with Baby Jesus
Some of Jesus’ life is recorded in the first four books of the New Testament. As a child in Nazareth, He “grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. (Luke 2:40) At the age of twelve he conversed with doctors (possibly meaning philosophers), “both hearing them, and asking them questions.” (Luke 2:46)
Depiction of Jesus Conversing with Doctors As a Boy
As a man, He began teaching the people of Jerusalem and surrounding areas. He taught them what his Father would have them know and do.
Depiction of Jesus Teaching the People of Jerusalem
As an example for us, He was baptized (in the Jordan River).
Depiction of Jesus Baptized by John the Baptist
With the power He had been given from his Father, he also performed miracles such as healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and raising the dead.
Depiction of Jesus Healing a Blind Man
Most importantly, Jesus performed the atonement. All of us sin (go against God’s will) in this life, making us unworthy to return to God’s presence. As part of the atonement, Jesus suffered for our sins. This means that if we accept this gift from Jesus and turn away from our sins (repent), we are eligible to return to live with God (and Jesus) again after this life.
Depiction of Jesus Praying Before Suffering for Us
Also as part of the atonement, Jesus allowed himself to be crucified (killed on a cross).
Depiction of Jesus on Cross
Even though it is sad to think of the suffering He went through for us, it is comforting to know that after He died, He was resurrected (or brought back to life with a body that would never die again) and that because He was resurrected, it made it possible for us to be resurrected (see Matthew 27:52).
He now lives in the heavens and directs prophets on the earth.
Depiction of Resurrected Jesus
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