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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints has more than seventeen million members worldwide, yet confusion and rumor continue to shape the way many people see it. From the very beginning of the Restoration in the 1820s, critics have circulated claims that are either inaccurate, exaggerated, or completely false. With the rise of social media, these misunderstandings spread faster than ever. If you are exploring the faith for yourself or simply seeking clarity, this article will walk through ten of the most common misconceptions and explain what the Church actually teaches, drawing on scripture and reliable sources along the way.

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1) Latter day Saints are not Christian

Perhaps the most common misconception is the idea that members of the Church are not Christians. This assumption usually comes from differences in doctrine between the restored Church and other Christian traditions. Yet the foundation of the faith is Jesus Christ Himself. The official name of the Church was given by revelation in 1838, and it clearly identifies Jesus Christ as central. The very first Article of Faith states, “We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.”

The Book of Mormon reinforces this truth with unmistakable clarity. Nephi declared, “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” (2 Nephi 25:26). That is the voice of a Christian witness. Every page of the Book of Mormon bears testimony of the Redeemer, from His premortal ministry to His atoning sacrifice to His resurrected appearance to the Nephites in the ancient Americas.

The Church newsroom has published helpful guidance on this very point, clarifying that members consider themselves devoutly Christian. You can read their statement here. The question of Christianity is not one of labels but of discipleship, and discipleship is exactly what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints seeks to nurture.

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2) Members worship Joseph Smith

Another frequent claim is that members worship Joseph Smith. This is not accurate. Joseph Smith is honored as the first prophet of this dispensation, the man through whom the Lord restored His Church and translated the Book of Mormon. He is revered but never worshipped. The adoration of mortal men is contrary to both scripture and the teachings of the Church.

The Bible is clear on worship. When the Savior was tempted, He responded, “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve” (Luke 4:8). Latter day Saints echo that truth. Joseph Smith himself pointed to Christ, declaring, “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven.” He added that all other matters are appendages to this testimony.

Church leaders regularly remind members that it is Jesus Christ who saves, not Joseph Smith or any other prophet. Prophets are vessels through whom God reveals His will, but salvation belongs to Christ alone.

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3) Latter day Saints have a secret Bible

Some outsiders believe the Church hides an additional secret Bible or that the Book of Mormon replaces the Holy Bible. In reality, members embrace the Bible as the word of God and read it alongside other scriptures. The Book of Mormon is described as another testament of Jesus Christ, not a replacement. It supports the Bible and clarifies many plain and precious truths lost over time.

The Book of Mormon itself declares, “This is written for the intent that ye may believe that” (Mormon 7:9). In other words, the record was preserved to persuade all to believe in the Bible, not to cast it aside. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints publishes the King James Version of the Bible for English speaking members and encourages daily study of both sacred books. You can access the Book of Mormon yourself for free here and see how it complements the Bible.

For many converts, the power of the Book of Mormon lies in how it strengthens their love for the Bible rather than diminishing it. Together these two witnesses confirm the divinity of Christ and His eternal gospel.

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4) Latter day Saints practice polygamy today

One of the most stubborn misconceptions is that members still practice plural marriage. While it is true that early members of the Church practiced polygamy under commandment, the practice officially ended more than a century ago. In 1890, President Wilford Woodruff issued what is called the Manifesto, which declared that new plural marriages would cease. The mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints has upheld this ever since, and anyone who attempts to enter into a plural marriage today is excommunicated.

Confusion persists because breakaway groups not affiliated with the Church continue to practice polygamy while still using the word “Mormon.” The Church newsroom has made it clear that such groups have no association with the Church. Members today practice monogamy in line with civil law and with the teachings of modern prophets.

The emphasis in marriage is on eternal companionship between one man and one woman, sealed in holy temples. This covenant is viewed as the foundation of family life and eternal progression.

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5) Latter day Saints cannot drink caffeine

Another widespread assumption is that members are prohibited from caffeine entirely. The truth is more nuanced. The Word of Wisdom, a revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 89, advises against alcohol, tobacco, tea, and coffee. The exact prohibition is against “hot drinks,” which early prophets clarified to mean coffee and tea. The guideline does not specifically forbid caffeine in all forms.

Over time, Church leaders have counseled members to avoid addictive substances and to treat their bodies as temples. Many members choose to avoid caffeinated sodas as a personal health choice, but it is not a requirement for faithfulness. The core principle is self mastery, wise stewardship of the body, and obedience to revealed commandments.

The Word of Wisdom reflects the Lord’s concern for both physical and spiritual health. Members testify that by living it they receive both temporal and spiritual blessings.

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6) The Church is only for Americans

Because the Church was restored in the United States, some believe it remains primarily an American faith. The reality is far different. The majority of members today live outside the United States, with vibrant communities in Latin America, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and Europe. Spanish, Portuguese, Tagalog, French, and dozens of other languages are spoken in congregations across the globe.

The Book of Mormon itself prophesied of this worldwide growth. Nephi wrote, “The words which are sealed shall be delivered to a man, and he shall deliver the words of the book unto another” (2 Nephi 27:9). Those words now reach every continent. The Church has built thousands of meetinghouses and more than three hundred temples are either dedicated or announced worldwide.

Global membership reflects the truth that God “is no respecter of persons” (Acts 10:34). All nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples are invited to gather in Christ and become one fold with one shepherd.

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7) Latter day Saints believe they can earn heaven alone

A persistent myth is that members believe salvation comes by works alone, as though they could earn their way to heaven. This misrepresents the doctrine of grace. The Book of Mormon proclaims, “It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23). Grace is central. No amount of human effort can pay the debt of sin. Only the Atonement of Jesus Christ does that.

At the same time, faith is shown by obedience. James declared, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26). Latter day Saints understand works not as a replacement for grace but as a demonstration of discipleship. Repentance, baptism, covenant keeping, and service are ways of showing the Lord that we accept His gift.

This balance of grace and works is not unique to the Restoration but is deeply rooted in the New Testament. Salvation is made possible only by Jesus Christ, and discipleship invites us to follow Him through action.

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8) Latter day Saints keep their temples secret

Another misconception is that members hide their temples in secrecy. In fact, temples are not secret but sacred. Anyone is welcome to tour a temple before its dedication. After dedication, only members in good standing who hold a temple recommend may enter to participate in ordinances. The distinction is not secrecy but sanctity.

Temples are houses of God, patterned after the holy temples of ancient Israel. Within their walls, members participate in covenants that bind families for eternity and provide proxy ordinances for the dead. These experiences are deeply personal and holy, which is why they are reserved for sacred space rather than casual discussion.

The Church provides open information about temples, including photos, public tours, and extensive resources. For example, you can explore temple purposes here. Rather than being closed clubs, temples are spiritual sanctuaries meant to draw people closer to Christ.

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9) Women have no role or authority in the Church

It is often claimed that women are sidelined in the Church. The reality is that women play crucial roles in leadership, teaching, and spiritual authority. While priesthood offices are held by men, women exercise priesthood power in callings, temple ordinances, and through spiritual gifts. Relief Society, one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world, was organized in 1842 and continues to empower millions of women to minister and lead.

The Proclamation on the Family emphasizes the equal partnership of men and women. Husbands and wives are intended to work side by side in raising children and building homes of faith. Women serve as missionaries, gospel teachers, presidents of organizations, and counselors. Their voices guide the Church at every level.

Scripture celebrates women of faith such as Eve, Sarah, Mary, and Emma Smith. The restored Church continues this tradition, affirming that daughters of God have an eternal identity and an essential role in His plan.

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10) The Church discourages questioning and learning

The final misconception is that members are discouraged from questioning, studying, or thinking critically. In truth, the Restoration began with a question. Joseph Smith’s First Vision was the result of a sincere search for truth after reading James 1:5, which promises wisdom to those who ask God. Inquiry, study, and personal revelation are woven into the DNA of the Church.

Leaders regularly counsel members to be lifelong learners. President Russell M. Nelson urged, “Seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:118). Members are encouraged to read broadly, ask sincere questions, and anchor answers in prayer and scripture. Seminary and Institute programs for youth and young adults provide rigorous doctrinal education that builds faith and intellectual engagement.

While the Church teaches revealed truths, it also upholds agency and personal growth. Honest seeking, combined with humility, leads to revelation. Far from discouraging thought, the Church invites disciples to love God with heart, might, mind, and strength.

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Conclusion

Misconceptions will likely always surround the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, just as they surrounded the early Christians in the meridian of time. Yet truth stands clear when examined with sincerity. Members worship Jesus Christ as their Savior. They honor prophets as guides, not as objects of worship. They embrace both the Bible and the Book of Mormon. They live covenants, build families, and look forward with faith to eternal life through grace. By clearing up these misunderstandings, we open the door to genuine conversation and mutual respect.

Frequently asked questions

 

Question	Answer
Are Latter day Saints Christian?	Yes. The entire faith centers on Jesus Christ as Savior and Redeemer. The Book of Mormon and the Bible both testify of Him.
Do Latter day Saints worship Joseph Smith?	No. Joseph Smith is honored as a prophet, but worship is reserved for God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.
Do members use a secret Bible?	No. Latter day Saints read and revere the Holy Bible. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, meant to support the Bible, not replace it.
Is polygamy still practiced?	No. The practice officially ended in 1890. Anyone attempting it today is not in harmony with the Church.
Are members forbidden from drinking caffeine?	The Word of Wisdom prohibits coffee and tea. Other caffeinated drinks are a personal choice, though moderation and health are encouraged.
Is the Church only for Americans?	No. The majority of members live outside the United States, with congregations across the world in many languages and cultures.
Do Latter day Saints believe they can earn heaven?	No. Salvation comes through the grace of Jesus Christ. Good works are expressions of faith, not a replacement for grace.
Why are temples closed to the public?	Temples are not secret but sacred. They are open to the public before dedication. Afterward, they are reserved for holy ordinances.
Do women have a role in the Church?	Yes. Women serve in leadership, teaching, and temple work. Relief Society is one of the largest women’s organizations in the world.
Can members ask questions and seek knowledge?	Yes. The Church encourages sincere study, prayer, and learning. The Restoration itself began with Joseph Smith’s question after reading James 1:5.