The recent accusation by one of Rick Perry's supporters indicating that Mormonism is a cult is by no means the first time the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has been called this name. I recall several occasions where individuals attempted to tell me what I believed based on a presentation they had received or video they had seen at their own church. Some of the doctrines attributed to the faith were incorrect. Others obsolete. Some were true, but portrayed in a context that made them seem bizarre.
Others have spent a long time trying to correct these misperceptions or explain the context behind confusing statements by church leaders from the 1800's. I do not intend to present a concern resolution post today.
Although I have never personally seen a presentation on the LDS faith from an evangelical perspective, I have noted that every one of my conversations with those that have were lacking critical points regarding our religion. Not one of them was comfortable enough with the contents of the Book of Mormon to explain who Nephi was, or Alma, or Moroni, or Mormon... the prophet for whom the book was named. How can one claim to know what Mormons believe without greater familiarity concerning the book that Mormons believe proves the authenticity of the Bible.
Some individuals emphasized that our Prophets and Apostles require blind obedience, but I do not recall one of these accusatory conversations in which the Gift of the Holy Ghost was discussed. The combination of personal revelation by the spirit of God and the word of God from the mouths of living prophets is found throughout the Bible and the Book of Mormon.
Others wanted to focus on more doctrinal points, such as the nature of the Godhead. There are many who believe that the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost are simultaneously three individuals, and one individual. Does the Mormon position that they are three separate individuals that are perfectly one in purpose and goal really make the church a cult? Christianity is hardly united on doctrine, and accusing some one of worshipping a "different" Jesus because of a few points of scriptural understanding is by no means grounds to call a Church a cult.
Finally, the belief in Christ himself is the most aggravating target of these antagonists. For a Christian to be accused of not being a Christian by a Christian... it is difficult to describe the frustration. What more can I say than that we believe that Jesus Christ is the Only Begotten Son of God. We believe that only his power is enough to help men fulfill their potential. We believe that only by obeying everything that he has commanded can people find true peace and happiness. He is our master, our liberator, and our King. He lived a perfect life, and did nothing to deserve the suffering he endured. We believe that his work is not yet finished, but that just as he himself promised, he will come again and save us all.
