Unveiling Mormonism

How can God be three and one at the same time?In this episode of our How Stuff Works series, we explore the mystery of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Using real-world discoveries like Copernicus’ heliocentric model and the outdated belief in bloodletting, we show how truth isn’t something we invent—it’s something we uncover.Just like scientists observed the universe and aligned their beliefs with reality, we can observe Scripture and align our faith with how God has revealed Himself.The Trinity isn’t a contradiction—it’s a deep truth waiting to be understood.🔍 Join us as we explore how the Trinity works—and why it matters for your faith today.📺 Watch the full How Stuff Works series for more!--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --

The Gospel of John offers one of the clearest pictures of who Jesus really is—and it stands in direct contradiction to the teachings of Mormonism. In this video, we explore five key doctrines where LDS beliefs clash with Scripture, including Jesus’ eternal identity, salvation by faith, the nature of God, and the false idea of a second chance after death.What did Joseph Smith do with John 1:1? How does John 8:24 challenge the LDS idea of spirit world conversions? And why does Jesus say He is the only way to God?We’re diving deep into the Bible to expose the truth and hold fast to the gospel as it was originally given. If you want to understand the real Jesus and compare Mormon theology with Scripture, this video is for you.📖 Key verses: John 1:1, John 6:47, John 14:6, John 4:24, John 8:24👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more Bible-centered truth and apologetics content.#MormonismExposed #BookOfJohn #LDSDoctrine #ChristianApologetics #JosephSmith #JesusIsGod #BibleTruth #FalseTeaching #ExposingMormonism #ChristianityVsMormonism--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --

Did early Mormon prophets really believe the moon was inhabited? According to historical records, Joseph Smith and Brigham Young taught that men lived on the moon and dressed like Quakers—seriously. While the LDS Church dismisses these claims as speculation, they raise an important question: Should true prophets ever get it this wrong?In this episode, we unpack the infamous "moon men" doctrine, explore the historical sources behind it, and offer a biblical critique of prophetic authority. Can a prophet be wrong about science, the universe, and still speak for God?📖 Want to go deeper?➤ More on LDS Claims vs. the Bible➤ Deuteronomy 18:20-22 - Test of a True Prophet➤ Free Bible Studies and Apologetics Resources👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more respectful but bold biblical analysis.#MoonMen #MormonHistory #JosephSmith #BrighamYoung #LDSChurch #FalseProphets #EvangelicalApologetics #BibleVsMormonism #ChristianTruth--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Notes

Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we’re wrapping up our “Generous” series—not with a lesson about money, but about something even more valuable: forgiveness.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Forgiveness and the $18 Billion Debt: What Jesus Really Meant in Matthew 18The average American household carries over $100,000 in debt, with over $6,000 in credit card balances alone. Debt is normal in our culture. But imagine this: someone walks up and says, “I just paid off your mortgage, your student loans, your credit cards, your car, and your kids’ college tuition.” You’d be speechless.Now picture yourself turning around and blowing up at someone who still owes you ten bucks from last week’s lunch. That’s the exact contrast Jesus paints in Matthew 18. It’s extreme. It’s uncomfortable. And it’s meant to be.Forgiveness Isn't Optional—It's EssentialMatthew 18:21-22Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”“No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”Peter thought he was being generous. Jewish tradition taught you only needed to forgive someone three times. So Peter more than doubled that—and Jesus blew it all out of the water. “Seventy times seven” wasn’t a number—it was a mindset. Forgiveness isn’t a ritual; it’s a daily posture.Jesus’ Parable: The $18 Billion Dollar DebtMatthew 18:23-24 (paraphrased)“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a king who called in his debts. One servant owed him 10,000 talents.”In biblical terms, 10,000 talents is about 200,000 years’ worth of wages—roughly $18 billion today. Jesus was making a point: the debt was absurdly unpayable.Why so much? The man was likely a tax farmer—someone who paid the empire upfront and then overcharged the people to make his profit. Corruption was baked into the job.Matthew 18:25-27“Since he couldn’t pay, the master ordered he and his family be sold. The man begged for mercy. The master had compassion and forgave the debt completely.”The Greek word used here for compassion—splagchnistheis—refers to deep, gut-level mercy. This is the same word used for Jesus in Matthew 9:36 when he looked at the lost crowds and felt moved to act.The Twist: The Man Who Couldn’t Forgive $30,000Matthew 18:28-30“But the forgiven servant went out and found a fellow servant who owed him 100 denarii (about $30,000 today). He choked him and demanded instant payment.”It’s infuriating, right? This man had just been forgiven a ridiculous debt. Then he turns around and can’t forgive someone else a fraction of what he owed.His fellow servant even used the same words: “Be patient with me and I will pay it.” But this time, the plea fell on deaf ears.Matthew 18:31-34“When the king heard what happened, he was furious. He threw the first servant into prison to be tortured until the debt could be paid.”Which—spoiler alert—it never could. Endless torture was the point.The Point of the Parable: Forgive Like You’ve Been ForgivenMatthew 18:35“That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.”This story is ultimately about your heart. About your capacity for compassion. About understanding that you owed God $18 billion—and He forgave you. So now, will you forgive the $30k someone else owes you?What Forgiveness Is (and Isn’t)Let’s get practical. Forgiveness doesn’t mean…That what happened was okay.That you’re pretending it didn’t hurt.That the other person gets off the hook.Forgiveness does mean…You’re releasing the power that pain has over your heart.You’re choosing to stop letting bitterness control you.You’re giving a double gift—one to yourself, and one to the offender.Hebrews 12:15 (NLT)“Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.”Forgiveness frees you. You can forgive even if they never say sorry. You can forgive and still have healthy boundaries. And most importantly, forgiveness reflects the heart of God.Romans 12:18 (NLT)“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.”Final Challenge: Picture That Person—and ForgiveYou were in spiritual debt up to your eyeballs. God forgave all of it. So now think about that person who hurt you. Picture their face. Say their name. Ask God for the compassion—splagchnistheis—to forgive them from your heart.This is what relational generosity looks like. And followers of Jesus should be the most generous people in the world.

Luke 2:52 shows Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, but does that mean He had to progress into godhood? The Bible teaches that Jesus has always been fully God—eternal and unchanging. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --One of the most fascinating verses about Jesus’ early life is Luke 2:52:"Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people." (NLT)This verse raises an important theological question—did Jesus “progress” over time, even spiritually? Some people, including members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, see this as evidence that Jesus wasn’t always fully divine. According to LDS teaching, even God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood, and Jesus followed a similar path. But what does the Bible actually say?Let’s break it down and compare the LDS view with what Scripture really teaches about the eternal nature of Jesus Christ.The LDS View: Jesus Progressed to GodhoodIn LDS teachings, Jesus is seen as the “firstborn spirit child” of Heavenly Father and progressed to become like God. One key scripture cited is Doctrine and Covenants 93:12–14, which says:“And I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace;And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness;And thus he was called the Son of God, because he received not of the fulness at the first.” (D&C 93:12–14)LDS leaders interpret this to mean that Jesus had to grow spiritually—receiving "grace for grace"—until He became divine. This supports the broader LDS belief that even God the Father was once a mortal man who progressed to godhood. As stated by former LDS President Lorenzo Snow:“As man is, God once was; as God is, man may become.”This couplet summarizes a core tenet of Mormon theology—that God the Father and Jesus Christ both progressed from a mortal state to divine status. But this concept stands in contrast to the Bible's teaching about Jesus' eternal nature.The Biblical View: Jesus Grew in His HumanityLuke 2:52 shows that Jesus experienced real human development. He grew in body (“stature”), in mind (“wisdom”), in relationships (“favor with all the people”), and in His connection with God the Father (“favor with God”).Jesus didn’t just appear out of nowhere as a fully grown man. He was born as a baby, raised in a family, and matured over time. This aligns with the Christian understanding of the incarnation—that Jesus, though fully God, also became fully human (John 1:14). Hebrews 2:17 says, “Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God.”So yes, Jesus “progressed” in His humanity, not in His divinity. He matured like any person would—because He was truly one of us.Jesus Was Always Fully GodHere’s where the Christian understanding differs sharply from LDS teaching. While Jesus grew and learned in His human nature, He never stopped being God. From eternity, Jesus was—and is—fully divine.John 1:1 says, “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Jesus didn’t have to “become” God. He didn’t earn it. He is God.Philippians 2:6-7 explains that “Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.” Jesus laid aside His privileges—not His divine identity.His Growth Shows His Willingness to Relate to UsThe fact that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature shows His humility and love. He chose to enter into the human experience completely, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally.Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” Jesus’ growth doesn’t mean He was ever lacking or imperfect. It means He was fully human in every way—except sin.This matters because it means Jesus can truly sympathize with us. He knows what it’s like to grow, to learn, to struggle, and to trust God.Jesus Did Not Progress to Godhood—He Always Had ItSome people point to verses like Luke 2:52 or D&C 93:12–14 to argue that Jesus “became” divine, as if He wasn’t God before. But Scripture is clear: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). His divine nature didn’t evolve—it’s eternal.The idea that Jesus had to progress to godhood is not found in the Bible. That idea comes from LDS scripture and teachings such as Lorenzo Snow’s couplet. In contrast, the Bible teaches that Jesus condescended, meaning He came down to our level to rescue us.To go deeper on how Christians understand the eternal nature of God and the Trinity, check out pursueGOD.org/trinity. For more on systematic theology and the core doctrines of biblical Christianity, visit pursueGOD.org/systheo.

Court and Becca, both inactive Mormons, discuss their experiences with the church and their journey to Jesus.  Becca, raised in a more religious family, held onto her faith despite being inactive, while Court, who became inactive at a young age, had no intention of returning.  After having a daughter, Becca felt a sense of urgency to re-engage with the church, leading them to attend services and participate in traditional Mormon practices. They eventually left the church, seeking a more accepting and grace-filled community. Despite initial skepticism, they eventually found a Bible study that rekindled their faith and led them to seek a new church home.Grace, as defined in the Bible, is a gift from God, not something earned through works.  Mormons, who believe in salvation through works, miss out on the true meaning of grace and the forgiveness offered by Jesus.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --

The Book of Hebrews delivers a powerful and clear message about the supremacy of Christ, the sufficiency of His priesthood, and the finality of His sacrifice. Unlike Mormon teachings, which emphasize human effort, ordinances, and a restored priesthood for exaltation, Hebrews declares that salvation comes through Christ alone!--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Mormonism Exposed by the Book of HebrewsThe Book of Hebrews presents a strong theological challenge to Mormonism, particularly in its teachings about the nature of Jesus, the priesthood, and the finality of God’s revelation. Hebrews emphasizes the supremacy of Christ, the sufficiency of His sacrifice, and the unchanging nature of God’s covenant, all of which contrast with key Mormon doctrines. By examining these biblical truths, we can see how Hebrews systematically refutes the foundation of Mormon beliefs and upholds the exclusivity of Christ’s redemptive work.The Supremacy of ChristOne of the key themes in the book of Hebrews is the supremacy of Christ. He's greater than angels, Moses, Melchizedek, and more. Hebrews 1:1-3 (NLT) states:"Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven."While Hebrews elevates Christ, Mormonism lowers him. Mormonism teaches that Jesus is one of many spirit children of God, the elder brother of humanity and even of Lucifer. The Book of Mormon also teaches that men can become gods, undermining Christ’s unique supremacy. Additionally, Mormon doctrine asserts that Jesus had to earn His godhood through obedience and progression, similar to how humans supposedly do. Here are some of their scriptures that support these ideas:Abraham 3:22-23 (Pearl of Great Price) – "Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones; And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them; thou wast chosen before thou wast born."Moses 4:1-2 (Pearl of Great Price) – "And I, the Lord God, spake unto Moses, saying: That Satan, whom thou hast commanded in the name of mine Only Begotten, is the same which was from the beginning, and he came before me, saying—Behold, here am I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost, and surely I will do it; wherefore give me thine honor."Doctrine and Covenants 93:12-14 - "And I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace; And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness." This suggests that Jesus progressed to godhood through obedience, a belief that aligns with Mormon teachings on human exaltation.Unlike the Mormon view of Jesus as a created being progressing toward godhood, Hebrews affirms His eternal deity and supreme authority. Jesus is not a spirit child among many; He is the preexistent, uncreated Son of God who holds all things together by His power.Hebrews 13:8-9 (NLT) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.  So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas....The Finality of Christ’s PriesthoodMormonism promotes a continuation of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods, bestowing these titles upon male members of their church. Doctrine and Covenants 107:1 states, "There are, in the church, two priesthoods, namely, the Melchizedek and Aaronic." This implies that Mormon authorities have a continuing role in mediating between God and man.Other Mormon scriptures emphasize the necessity of a restored priesthood:Doctrine and Covenants 13:1 claims that John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic priesthood upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery: "Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins."ns."Doctrine and Covenants 84:17-21 teaches that without priesthood ordinances, "the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh."Doctrine and Covenants 110:11-16 describes the appearance of Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple, supposedly restoring priesthood keys to Joseph Smith.Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith—History 1:69-72 records Peter, James, and John conferring the Melchizedek Priesthood upon Joseph Smith, allegedly giving him the authority to administer ordinances.However, Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus Christ is the only true and final High Priest after the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 7:23-25 states, "There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore, he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf." There is no need for a restored priesthood, because Christ’s priesthood is eternal and sufficient. Since Jesus is our permanent High Priest, there is no biblical basis for a separate, human-administered priesthood today.Hebrews 10:19-22 further confirms that believers have direct access to God through Christ: "And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus." This contradicts Mormon teachings that a hierarchical priesthood is required to approach God.The Certainty of JudgmentMormonism teaches that after death, spirits go to either spirit paradise or spirit prison, where they continue to learn and progress. Those in spirit prison can receive the gospel and move toward exaltation through ordinances performed on their behalf by the living. Doctrine and Covenants 138:32-34 describes this process: "Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets. These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and all other principles of the gospel."Another important Mormon teaching is that spirit paradise is not the final destination but a temporary waiting place before resurrection and judgment. Alma 40:11-12 (Book of Mormon) states: "Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection—Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life. And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow."However, Hebrews 9:27 (NLT) states: "...each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment...." This passage presents a key truth that contradicts Mormon theology: There is only one mortal life before judgment. Mormonism teaches the concept of progression after death, including the possibility of posthumous baptism, spirit prison, and eventual exaltation through continued effort. However, Hebrews affirms that after death comes judgment, negating the idea of second chances or progression after mortality.Hebrews 9:28 also declares another vital truth about the nature of salvation. Mormonism teaches that temple ordinances, obedience to commandments, and continued works are necessary for exaltation. However, Hebrews emphasizes that Christ’s single, perfect sacrifice is entirely sufficient for salvation. His return is not to deal with sin again but to bring final salvation to those who trust in Him. This refutes the idea that ongoing ordinances and personal effort contribute to one’s eternal destiny.Hebrews 9:27-28 (NLT) states:"And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him."TakeawayThe Book of Hebrews presents a powerful and clear message about the supremacy of Christ, the sufficiency of His priesthood, and the finality of His sacrifice. Unlike the teachings of Mormonism, which suggest that human effort, ordinances, and a restored priesthood are necessary for exaltation, Hebrews emphasizes that salvation comes through Christ alone. There is no need for additional mediators, priesthoods, or works to achieve eternal life. Christ’s sacrifice was once for all, and His position as our High Priest remains forever. Those who trust in Him can have full assurance of salvation, knowing that His work is complete and sufficient., so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him."

The book of Galatians is one of the clearest biblical refutations of false gospels, and it directly challenges the core teachings of Mormonism. Written by the apostle Paul, Galatians warns against adding anything to the gospel of grace through faith in Christ alone. Paul rebukes those who introduce "another gospel," saying they are distorting the true message of salvation (Galatians 1:6-9). This is highly relevant when evaluating Mormonism, which presents a gospel of works, temple ordinances, and additional revelations beyond Scripture.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Galatians Condemns "Another Gospel"Paul’s strongest words in Galatians are aimed at those who preach a gospel different from the one originally given. He writes:“I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News but is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ. Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you.” (Galatians 1:6-8, NLT)Mormonism claims that an angel, Moroni, appeared to Joseph Smith and gave him a "restored gospel." Yet, Paul explicitly warns against believing even an angel if it brings a different gospel. This alone should cause concern for those who follow the teachings of MormonismSalvation Is by Faith, Not WorksOne of the foundational teachings of Mormonism is that salvation requires obedience to laws, ordinances, and good works. However, Galatians repeatedly emphasizes that salvation is by faith in Christ alone, apart from works of the law. Paul writes:“Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God because of our faith in Christ, not because we have obeyed the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law.” (Galatians 2:16, NLT)Mormonism teaches that exaltation (becoming like God) requires obedience to commandments, temple ordinances, and the priesthood. But Paul completely rejects any system that mixes faith with works for justification. If righteousness could be gained through works, Christ’s death would have been meaningless (Galatians 2:21).The Law Cannot SaveMormonism places a heavy emphasis on laws and ordinances, teaching that they are necessary for full salvation. However, Paul explains that the law was never meant to bring salvation but to point people to Christ.“Why, then, was the law given? It was given alongside the promise to show people their sins. But the law was designed to last only until the coming of the child who was promised… If the law could give us new life, we could be made right with God by obeying it.” (Galatians 3:19, 21b, NLT)Mormonism teaches that one must follow laws to attain exaltation, but Galatians makes it clear that righteousness comes through faith, not by observing religious rules. The law was only a tutor to lead people to Christ (Galatians 3:24-25).We Are Children of the Promise, Not of a Religious SystemPaul contrasts those who live by faith with those who try to earn their place in God's kingdom. He uses the story of Abraham’s two sons—Isaac, the child of promise, and Ishmael, the child of human effort—to illustrate the difference between grace and works-based religion.“The son of the slave wife was born in a human attempt to bring about the fulfillment of God’s promise. But the son of the freeborn wife was born as God’s own fulfillment of his promise… So, dear brothers and sisters, we are not children of the slave woman; we are children of the free woman.” (Galatians 4:23, 31, NLT)Mormonism, like many other religious systems, relies on human effort to achieve divine favor. But Galatians teaches that believers are children of God by faith, not through religious performance.True Freedom Is in Christ AloneThe message of Galatians is a call to freedom in Christ. Those who trust in works remain in bondage, but faith in Jesus brings true freedom. Paul warns:“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” (Galatians 5:1, NLT)Mormonism places heavy burdens on its followers—temple requirements, tithing obligations, and striving for perfection. But the gospel of Jesus offers complete freedom through faith in Him.TakeawayThe book of Galatians exposes the false gospel of Mormonism by emphasizing that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. Paul’s warning about "another gospel" fits Mormonism’s teachings perfectly. No angel, prophet, or religious system can add to the finished work of Christ on the cross. Those who seek salvation through works are rejecting the true gospel.

Leaving the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) is a life-altering decision. For many, it’s a painful process that leads to more questions than answers. Once the foundation of Mormonism crumbles, ex-members must decide where to go next. Some turn to biblical Christianity and find truth in the gospel of Jesus Christ, while others venture into different ideological or religious rabbit holes. The search for truth can take many forms, but not all paths lead to freedom and fulfillment in Christ.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --1. Deconstructing Faith AltogetherOne of the most common outcomes for ex-Mormons is the complete deconstruction of faith. After realizing that the LDS Church is not true, many begin to doubt all religious claims, including Christianity. The logical conclusion for some is agnosticism or atheism, believing that if Mormonism was a lie, perhaps all religions are man-made.This path is often fueled by bitterness or exhaustion from years of religious performance. Former Mormons may feel deceived and unwilling to trust any organized belief system again. Some even become vocal critics of Christianity, equating the Bible with the Book of Mormon and assuming both are unreliable. However, this approach overlooks key differences—unlike Mormonism, biblical Christianity is rooted in historical, archaeological, and theological truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17).2. Embracing a Godless LifestyleFor some, leaving Mormonism becomes an excuse to indulge in behaviors previously forbidden by the LDS Church. With no more Word of Wisdom restrictions, some turn to excessive drinking, drug use, or promiscuity as a way to reclaim their "freedom." The strict moral code of Mormonism can feel suffocating, and once those restraints are gone, the pendulum swings hard in the opposite direction.But this new form of “freedom” often leads to emptiness. Without a solid moral foundation, people may experience broken relationships, addiction, or deep dissatisfaction. The Bible warns that “there is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death” (Proverbs 14:12, NLT). True freedom is not found in abandoning all moral boundaries but in Christ, who offers abundant life (John 10:10).3. Turning to New Age SpiritualitySome ex-Mormons don’t abandon spirituality but instead embrace mysticism, energy healing, or Eastern religious ideas. The structured theology of Mormonism can leave a void that alternative spiritualities attempt to fill. Many become drawn to meditation, astrology, or the idea of a “higher consciousness,” believing that they can still connect with the divine—just without the structure of Christianity.This path can be appealing because it rejects religious authority while still offering a sense of spirituality. However, it is a dangerous deception. The Bible warns against spiritual practices that lead people away from the true God (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Instead of looking inward or seeking mystical experiences, former Mormons need to seek the real Jesus, who offers salvation, not vague spiritualism (John 14:6).4. Exploring Eastern Orthodoxy or CatholicismMany ex-Mormons who still desire structured faith are drawn to Eastern Orthodoxy or Roman Catholicism because of their claims to apostolic succession. After realizing that Mormon priesthood authority is unfounded, some seek a church that claims unbroken authority from the apostles. The idea of an ancient, traditional church is appealing after leaving a modern, man-made religion like Mormonism.While these traditions have deep historical roots, they also come with theological baggage. Many former Mormons find comfort in ritual and tradition but fail to examine whether these traditions align with Scripture. The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone—not through sacraments or church authority (Ephesians 2:8-9). While church history is important, authority must always be tested by the Word of God (Acts 17:11).Finding Biblical ChristianityThe best path after Mormonism is to examine who Jesus really is and what the Bible truly teaches. Many former Mormons initially resist Christianity because they assume it’s just another version of organized religion. However, biblical Christianity stands apart from Mormonism in fundamental ways.Unlike Mormonism, the gospel is not about earning God’s favor through works, temple ordinances, or church membership. Jesus offers salvation as a free gift to those who trust in Him alone (Romans 10:9-10). The Bible is reliable, historically supported, and has not been changed to fit human agendas (Isaiah 40:8). True faith is not about an institution—it’s about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.ConclusionLeaving Mormonism is a journey with many possible destinations. Some ex-Mormons deconstruct faith entirely, others fall into hedonism or New Age beliefs, and still others explore apostolic traditions. But the ultimate question remains: What is truth?Jesus made it clear when He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6, NLT). Former Mormons must wrestle with this reality. Instead of following another rabbit hole, the best path is to examine Jesus Christ and the Bible, which provide a firm foundation for faith, hope, and eternal life.

Growing up in a devout Mormon family, Holli never imagined she'd question her faith—until life’s challenges and hidden truths changed everything. In this episode, she shares her journey of doubt, the struggle to balance faith and family, and the beauty of experiencing God's grace. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --In this candid episode, Holli opens up about her lifelong journey within Mormonism and the transformation that led her to question long-held beliefs. Raised in a devout Mormon family and having served a mission in Chile, Holli’s early life was steeped in the traditions and comforts of the church. However, as life’s trials and a series of eye-opening experiences unfolded, she found herself living a double life—physically present in her community while her heart and mind embarked on a quest for deeper truth.A Lifelong Bond Turned ChallengingHolli shares that her early years were deeply rooted in the church, with family, mission work, and a strong communal identity serving as her rock. The church not only provided her with a sense of purpose but also defined her identity, making the journey of deconstruction all the more painful when personal loss and hidden truths emerged.The Moment of UnravelingThe turning point came unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discomfort with mandated safety measures and revelations about the church’s financial interests—like its involvement with Pfizer—sparked questions about the institution’s true nature. As Holli discovered unsettling aspects of church history and policies, her once-black-and-white faith began to blur into a complex tapestry of doubt and revelation.Balancing Family and FaithOne of the most challenging aspects of Holli’s journey is the delicate balance of staying connected to her children’s community while embracing her newfound convictions. Identifying as “pimo” (physically in, mentally out), she continues to participate in church life for her children’s sake, even as her personal beliefs evolve. Her honest approach—attending a local Christian church she loves while gently distancing herself from traditional Mormon practices—exemplifies the struggle many face when re-evaluating deeply ingrained identities.Embracing Compassion and ListeningDespite the upheaval in her spiritual life, Holli emphasizes the importance of compassion and open dialogue. Her advice resonates with anyone grappling with the complexities of faith: listen deeply, approach others with empathy, and remain open to the transformative power of truth. She also highlights the additional struggles faced by widowed women in the church, urging for a more inclusive and understanding community.Moving Forward in FaithHolli’s story is a powerful testament to the challenges of unlearning a lifetime of beliefs and the courage required to forge a new path. As she navigates this transition, her journey invites us all to reflect on our own spiritual paths and the ways we can seek a deeper, more honest connection with God.