Talking Points:
- Mormons and evangelical Christians use the word “Christian” in two different ways. Evangelicals use a narrow definition, and Mormons use a broad one.
- Institutions are defined narrowly by doctrine; Individuals tend to use experiential definitions.
- The most important issue is this: we are saved only by the work of Jesus. Romans 3:22
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Why do you think Mormons get offended when others suggest that they are not real Christians?
- What definitions do Mormons use to define themselves as Christians? How valid are those definitions?
- By what standard are churches, schools, or other institutions deemed to be Christian or not? Can you think of a better standard?
- Why is a purely doctrinal definition not adequate to define individuals as Christians or not?
- Since we can’t see anyone else’s heart, is it even meaningful to talk about who is a Christian and who is not? Why or why not?
- Summarize your conclusions from this conversation.
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
