Our LDS Christian Heritage

Are Mormons Christian? Mormons cannot help but note the incongruity in that statement.

Early missionary efforts brought astounding results because they carried the message of the restored Christian church. In England when Wilford Woodruff met the Benbows and their United Brethren, he had no idea the large numbers of people prepared to receive the message. Thousands listened and knew its truth. Lorenzo Snow found similar success in the Piedmont of Northern Italy, as did many other missionaries. Humble farmers and business men listened, knowing they had found pure Christian truth.

Why were the missionaries able to gather so many elect of the earth in the early days of the Church? Because Heavenly Father had prepared the faithful. They were looking for a religion that believed in the same principles established by the Savior Himself in early Christianity. All these converts were drawn to the clarity of Latter-day Saint Christian beliefs.

I find it ironic that today some in our society are just coming to recognize The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as Christian, when the foundation of all we believe is based on our worship of the Lord Jesus Christ.

My husband and I worked in the Las Vegas Temple years ago, and one afternoon I was assigned to the Celestial room. As I quietly entered that sacred place, a distinguished gentleman stood in adoration before the picture of the Savior. The sun shone through the cut glass windows, casting an ethereal glow on the scene. I have never forgotten that image. I pray that I can show my reverence for my Savior to others as that gentleman unknowingly demonstrated for me.

I am a Christian and a Mormon.

Are we Christians? How grateful that I can answer as Peter did. “Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee.” Jesus answered, “Feed my lambs.” (John 21:15) May we listen to the Savior’s answering plea, and by our small daily deeds to show the world we are Christian.

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Christy loves writing for children. Pioneer history has always had a special place in her heart—particularly stories of the prophets. She has published articles in The Ensign, Friend and other children’s periodicals. She and her husband, Robert, have lived all over the United States, enjoying the company of Seminary and Institute youth for over 36 years. During their stay in Las Vegas, Christy received a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and established a counseling business. She and her husband live in Ogden, Utah.