An Introduction to Mormonism

by Douglas J. Davies

• ISBN13: 9780521817387
• ISBN10: 0521817382
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2003-12-08
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one of the fastest growing religious movements in the world. It is highly visible, with a massive missionary program, yet it remains a mystery in terms of its core beliefs and theological structure. This timely book provides an introduction to the basic history, doctrines and practices of The LDS - the 'Mormon' Church. Written by a non-Mormon it neither seeks to prove or disprove the truthfulness of the religious claims of that faith but rather to describe them in ways that non-Mormons can understand. Particular emphasis is given to sacred texts and prophecies as well as to the crucial Temple rituals of endowments, marriage and baptism for the dead, through which human beings may achieve their divine potential. This rich comparative study offers a new understanding of Mormon theology and ideas of humanity.

Table of Contents

Introduction

1. The birth and growth of Mormonism

2. Prophets and texts

3. Divine-human transformations

4. Death, faith and eternity

5. Organization and leaders

6. Ethics, atonement and agency

7. Priesthood, stake and family

8. Temples and ritual

9. Identity, opposition and expansion

Bibliography.