Hi Interested:
I was raised as a Lutheran. When I was 13 taking my Confirmation class, the first test we were given was "What is a Christian". Surprisingly, out of a class of 33 I was the only one who got the correct answer, according to my Pastor. My answer was "someone who believes in Christ". That was back in 1965 (please do NOT do the math....). When I was 21 I joined a multi-denominational singing group which performed a musical to various church congregations in So. California. Our message was to come to Christ. That was my first real contact with "Mormons" as there were several in the group, along with Catholics, Lutherans, Episcopaleans, etc. We all got along very well and there was no doubt in our minds we were all Christians because we all believed in the same Christ. That was in 1973. In 1974 I converted to the LDS Church. Over the years the definition of Christian changed. I am no longer considered a Christian by most other Christian religions not only because of the Trinitarian doctrine; but also because many of the denominations believe I do not believe in the same Christ they believe in. I still believe in the same Christ I always did.....it is the world that has changed their criteria. I hope this helps. It is what I experienced first hand. Even the Trinitarians admit their concept of the Godhead is the same among the various denominations, and though it is described in only a few words, it is very complex in establishing their support of the conclusion they have reached.
LDS believe in Heavenly Father, His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. They are one in purpose; but are separate.
