Introducing Christianity to Mormons by Eric Johnson
Sep 15, 2022
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Eric Johnson, an expert on sharing Jesus with Mormons, joins Jonathan Morrow in a practical conversation on how to compassionately share the truth with Mormons. They discuss understanding Mormon beliefs, the differences in beliefs on grace and the nature of God, the importance of knowing the Bible, and practical advice on sharing faith. They also share a story of a couple transitioning from Mormonism to Christianity and encourage listeners to continue praying for effective evangelism.
Understand and explain the Trinity, grace, and salvation by grace alone when introducing Christianity to Mormons.
Be knowledgeable about the differences between Christian and Mormon theology to engage in effective conversations.
Engage with Mormons in a respectful and loving manner, being patient, looking for inroads, and asking questions rather than forcefully presenting arguments.
Deep dives
The Need for a Book on Introducing Christianity to Mormons
This podcast episode features an interview with Eric Johnson, the author of a new book titled 'Introducing Christianity to Mormons: A Practical and Comparative Guide to What the Bible Teaches.' The book is written with the aim of helping Christians engage with Mormons and effectively present the gospel to them. Johnson discusses the reasons behind writing the book, citing the rise in people leaving Mormonism and the need for Christians to have a clear understanding of their beliefs.
Challenges of Introducing Christianity to Mormons
Johnson highlights the challenges faced when introducing Christianity to Mormons, including the misconceptions Mormons have about Christian beliefs. He discusses the importance of explaining the Trinity, the nature of grace, and the concept of salvation by grace alone. Johnson emphasizes the need for Christians to be knowledgeable about their own beliefs and the differences between Christian and Mormon theology in order to engage in effective conversations.
The Distinctive Beliefs of Mormons
The podcast delves into the distinctive beliefs held by Mormons. Johnson explains that Mormons believe in a tangible God with a physical body of flesh and bones, in contrast to the Christian belief in the Trinity and the incorporeal nature of God. He also discusses Mormon ideas of salvation, which include the concept of eternal life and the requirement of good works to attain exaltation.
The Role of Grace in Mormonism and Christianity
Johnson highlights the differences in understanding grace between Mormonism and Christianity. He explains that Mormons view grace as an enabling power that helps individuals keep the commandments, while Christians understand grace as unmerited favor from God that provides forgiveness of sin through faith in Jesus. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity and proper biblical understanding when discussing grace with Mormons.
Engaging with Mormons in a Respectful and Loving Manner
The podcast concludes with a discussion on how Christians can engage with Mormons in a respectful and loving manner, without causing relational upheaval. It stresses the importance of being patient, looking for inroads, and asking questions rather than forcefully presenting arguments. Johnson encourages Christians to be cautious but ready to share the gospel when the opportunity arises, relying on prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How do you share Jesus with your Mormon friends and family?
One of our greatest challenges as Christians is sharing the truth with those who believe they’ve already found it. When witnessing to current or former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it’s essential that you can compassionately delineate biblical teachings from Mormon doctrine while tactfully advocating for Christ.
In this podcast interview, Jonathan Morrow has a practical conversation with Eric Johnson on how to do this.
For every believer who prays for loved ones in the LDS Church—or loved ones who gave up on religion after leaving Mormonism—Introducing Christianity to Mormons is the guidebook you need to witness to them. Inside this book, you’ll find real-life conversations that give you helpful ideas for what to say in your discussions, contrast points between Mormonism and Christianity that illuminate God’s truth, and biblical apologetics that allow you to minister to former LDS members wounded by their experience with the Church. Get ready to present the case for Christianity with confidence and grace.