10 Common Myths About Latter-day Saints—And the Truth Behind Them
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church, is too often the target of misconceptions and myths. Learning the facts about these misunderstandings is important for building respect and proper understanding. Below are 10 popular myths about Latter-day Saints and truths about them;
Myth 1: Latter-day Saints worship Joseph Smith
The Truth: Latter Day Saints revere Joseph Smith as a prophet through whom God restored the full gospel of Jesus Christ and the organization of His Church in latter days. However, this reverence does not extend to worshiping him. As a prophet, Latter-day Saints believe that Joseph Smith received a divine revelation to reconstitute the Church after the great apostasy. Thus he is often referenced in testimonies and church meetings as a prophet of the Restoration.
Myth 2: Latter-day Saints Don’t Believe in the Bible
The Truth: Latter-day Saints view the Bible as sacred scripture and the word of God. They study it, preach from it, and apply its teachings. However, they have additional scriptures that complement the Bible such as the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price. These scriptures affirm and elaborate biblical teachings but are not a replacement of the Bible.
As the Book of Mormon declares: “Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written” (2 Nephi 29:10). Latter-day Saints believe that God continues to speak and reveal truth through multiple witnesses.
Myth 3: Latter-day Saints Practice Polygamy
The Truth: While plural marriage was part of early Church history, the practice officially ended in 1890 with the issuance of the Manifesto by President Wilford Woodruff.
This marked a significant turning point, leading to the Church’s discontinuation of polygamy. Today, the Church strictly forbids the practice. Some independent fundamentalist groups continue to practice polygamy, but they have no affiliation with or recognition from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Myth 4: Latter-day Saints are a Cult
The Truth: Cults are characterized by negative connotations of secrecy and manipulation. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a transparent and open organization. Its meeting houses around the world welcome all visitors to attend Sunday services and community activities.
The Church’s scriptures, teachings, and history are widely available both online and in print. While certain temple ceremonies are considered sacred and not publicly discussed, this practice is rooted in reverence and not cultic secrecy.
Myth 5: Latter-day Saints Don’t Believe in Jesus Christ
The Truth: This is a fundamental misunderstanding. The name of the Church itself highlights their supreme belief in Jesus Christ. He is the cornerstone of their belief. The LDS believe in Jesus’s divinity, His atoning sacrifice, His resurrection, and His role as Savior and Redeemer of the world. Their lives and teachings are centered on following His example.
In The Book of Mormon 2 Nephi 25-26 – “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.”
Myth 6: Latter-day Saints are Racist
The Truth: There was a priesthood ban for a long period in the history of the Church that prohibited men of black African descent from being ordained to the priesthood and receiving temple ordinances. The Church rescinded this policy in 1978. Since then, the Church has openly opposed racism of any kind and actively worked to encourage diversity and inclusivity in its membership. While the historic restriction was a source of pain and misunderstanding, the Church’s current teaching and practice are opposed to racism.
Myth 7: Latter-day Saints Worship the Dead
The Truth: Latter-day Saints do not worship the dead. This misunderstanding likely stems from the Church’s strong emphasis on family history and performing temple ordinances on behalf of deceased ancestors. However, this practice is not an attempt at worshipping the ancestors, but serving and remembering them. The saints believe that saving ordinances can be offered on behalf of the dead, and they may accept those in the afterlife if they want to. It’s a demonstration of love and faith in eternal families—not worship.
Image credit: Baptismal Font (Ogden Utah Temple)
As the Apostle Paul taught:
“Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?” (1 Corinthians 15:29)
This ancient Christian practice reaffirms the Latter-day Saint belief that God’s plan extends beyond this life, allowing all of His children a chance to receive the blessings of the gospel.
Myth 8: Latter-day Saints are Obsessed With their Genealogy
The Truth: Genealogy is a critical doctrine to members of Latter-day Saints faith. It is founded upon their doctrines of eternal families and the temple ordinances that are performed for the deceased. The Latter-day Saints believe in families staying together forever, and genealogy work enables them to give those who have died the opportunity to attain gospel blessings in the hereafter. More than a hobby or a preoccupation, family history work is a spiritual and deeply meaningful pursuit that shows their love for family—past, present, and future.
Image Credit: Illustration by Christopher Cherrington | The Salt Lake Tribune
Myth 9: Latter-day Saints Have no Individual Thoughts
The Truth: Latter-day Saints are a diverse and global community, each with unique personalities, talents, and perspectives. While they are united by shared beliefs and values, members have different cultures, professions, and political viewpoints. The Church encourages individual thought, personal growth, and the development of a personal relationship with God. This diversity enriches the faith and reflects its inclusive and worldwide nature.
Myth 10: Latter-day Saints are Trying to Take Over the World
The Truth: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has growing membership and activity all over the world, but its purpose is not political or conspiratorial, but spiritual. The Church is interested in teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, strengthening families, and providing humanitarian help worldwide. It continuously instructs members to be responsible citizens, obey local laws, and interact with their communities in gentleness and integrity. Attempts to spread the Church’s influence are focused on service and individual change, not domination or control.
Forget the Myths—Discover the Truth About The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The Church is more than the misconceptions—it’s a Christ-centered community focused on faith, family, and serving others. Now that you’ve seen a clearer picture of what Latter-day Saints truly believe and practice, why not take the next step?
Want to learn more? Fill out this online form and missionaries will reach out to answer your questions and share more about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The truth is worth discovering. Start your journey today.
