Difference Between Mormon And Jehovah Witness

Mormon vs. Jehovah's Witness: Key Differences in Beliefs and Practices

Understanding the differences between Mormons (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and Jehovah's Witnesses can be challenging, as both are often grouped together as "non-traditional" Christian faiths. However, significant theological and practical distinctions set them apart. This article will explore these key differences, clarifying the unique beliefs and practices of each group. This comparison will focus on core doctrines and lifestyle choices to provide a clear understanding of their separate identities.

Key Differences: A Summary

While both groups emphasize scripture and personal morality, their interpretations differ significantly. Mormons believe in a living prophet, continuous revelation, and the possibility of becoming a god. Jehovah's Witnesses, conversely, follow a strict interpretation of the Bible, rejecting the Trinity and emphasizing the importance of God's Kingdom. These foundational beliefs influence every aspect of their lives, from worship practices to social interactions.

I. The Nature of God and Jesus Christ

• Mormons (LDS): Believe in a God who is a perfected, exalted being, and that humans can also achieve godhood through obedience and righteous living. They believe in a Heavenly Father and a literal, physical Jesus Christ who is the firstborn of God. The Holy Ghost is a separate spirit being, making a total of three distinct members of the Godhead. This concept is often referred to as "the family nature of God."

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Believe in one God, Jehovah, and Jesus Christ as his only-begotten Son, a created being, not part of a Trinity. They reject the Trinity doctrine as unscriptural. They view Jesus as the Messiah, but not equal to Jehovah in power and nature. The holy spirit is understood as God's active force, not a separate person.

II. Scripture and Revelation

• Mormons (LDS): Accept the Bible as scripture but also consider the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price as divinely inspired scripture, alongside continuing revelation through their current prophet. This belief in ongoing revelation is a central tenet of their faith.

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Primarily use the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, a version translated by themselves, and other Bible translations to support their interpretation. They believe that God's revelation ended with the completion of the Bible; they do not believe in ongoing direct divine revelation to individuals or leaders.

III. Salvation and the Afterlife

• Mormons (LDS): Believe in salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and continued obedience to God's commandments. They believe in exaltation, a progression toward godhood, and the possibility of eternal families. They also believe in a three-tiered afterlife: the Celestial Kingdom, the Terrestrial Kingdom, and the Telestial Kingdom, with varying degrees of glory.

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Believe in salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and obedience to God's commandments, leading to life in a resurrected earthly paradise. They believe in the resurrection, with only a select few going to heaven to rule with Christ. They do not believe in an eternal hellfire but in annihilation for the wicked.

IV. Temple Worship and Practices

• Mormons (LDS): Have magnificent temples where members participate in sacred ordinances, such as marriage for eternity and baptisms for the dead. These temples are considered sacred spaces reserved for devout members.

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Do not have temples. Their worship takes place primarily in Kingdom Halls, where they engage in prayer, Bible study, and fellowship.

V. Social Practices and Lifestyle

Both groups are known for their strong community ties and moral standards. However, their approach differs:

• Mormons (LDS): Generally encourage higher education and career advancement. They abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine, and emphasize family values, including large families.

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Focus heavily on preaching and door-to-door evangelism. They also abstain from blood transfusions and celebrate only religious holidays, abstaining from celebrations like Christmas and birthdays. Political neutrality is a strong tenet of their belief.

In conclusion, while both Mormonism and Jehovah's Witness beliefs originate from Christian roots, their theological interpretations and practices diverge significantly. Understanding these core differences helps to avoid generalizations and appreciate the distinct nature of each faith. This detailed comparison offers a clearer understanding of their unique beliefs and practices.