I am a Christian.

 
So far with my blog I have not gone into the topic of religion too much. But things have been on my mind lately with recent events politically, and I just wanted to get my opinion out there, even if only a few people read it. You guys may have picked up on the fact that I am a Mormon. "Mormon" is actually a nickname for our church, and the church I belong to is actually called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Recently in the media people have been commenting about their opinions on whether or not Mormons are Christian. This whole discussion brought me back to an event that happened to me in high school. I had a couple friends start an Athletic Christan Club, made of people who liked to play sports and were active, that were also Christian. However my friends were having some problems getting people involved and were needing more people to join. I figured since I was Christian, and I played three sports for the school that I would help them out and join. So when I told them I would be happy to join, they told me no. I asked why not and they told me I wasn't Christian, I was a Mormon.

Hmm. I hadn't known they weren't the same thing. I was pretty hurt, and tried to explain that I believe Jesus Christ is my Savior, who died for me. But I wasn't allowed in the club, and I wasn't going to argue it.

I understand there are people out there that don't consider or recognize Mormons, or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, as Christians. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, and I don't want this post to become an argument over that.

I just felt like with recent things going on currently in the media, and certain statements made by Jeffress, that I wanted to make my opinions clear.

I am not a member of a cult.

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I believe that Jesus Christ was the only Begotten son of God the Father, as well as a Prophet and is my Savior and Redeemer. I believe that he died for me, for my sins, so that I can be clean. He is very much my personal Savior. I don't go a day without thinking of the Atonement, and feel so incredibly blessed to have this knowledge in my life. I am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I know many of you might not be religious, or some of you may agree with the notion that I am not a Christian.
But I think everyone is entitled to their beliefs and these are mine.


*Since I have had some questions since this post, I thought I would direct you all here.
 

52 comments

  1. I'm Catholic, and as a catholic we believe that Jesus Christ wasnt a prophet but God. I think that the media can change alot of people views on a religion even if its not right or true

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  3. Sorry, posted with the wrong profile! Here's what I wrote again:

    I consider myself an agnostic-leaning-atheist and I wholeheartedly agree with this post. The central theme of Christ's message to the world was inclusiveness, not exclusion or derision of other belief systems. It is sad to see some of his followers not actually follow that message. You have your beliefs and you are entitled to them, end of story. :) Thanks for sharing something so personal.

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  4. I love that you put yourself out there! LOVE IT! I have so much respect for that. thank you!

    lea
    xo

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  5. I am a christian and I don't really know anything about mormons but I have been very interested in mormon belief's lately.

    This might sound like a silly question and you can answer it by emailing me if you want, and have the time:

    Is there any difference between christians and mormons? I mean, I know you mentioned its the same religion, but does anything differentiate each group? I consider myself a pentecostal which is a subgroup of christianity. I guess that what I am trying to ask here is why is mormon the nickname for your church?

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  6. Read about this discussion in several american blogs.

    Seems to be a quite exclusive club, that club of the "real christians".

    Jesus himself - by the way - was a jew (even on the cross was written INRI). Dos this mean that he was not a Christian ? ....

    We had that WWJD (what would Jesus do)-Movement here some years ago.

    I´m absolutely sure thas Jesus loves everyeveryone who loves him and follows him !

    So do not bother too much about that discussion :-)))

    Dearest greetings from Germany
    Regina

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  7. For the record, I totally love you and your blog and I have no problem with you being a Mormon, i don't judge people based on their religious beliefs.

    But from what I have read and heard, there are difference's between Christians and Mormons, just like between Christians and Catholics and etc. So, I don't think you can be both a christian & a Mormon, that's believing different things.

    I was raised a catholic and am now a christian. But, i found this, and maybe it explains why people put them into two different groups.

    "Regarding the differences between Mormons and Christians, the former sect believes in the Book of Mormon, otherwise known as the Mormon bible; The Pearl of great Price, and Covenants and Doctrines. Christians believe in the Holy Bible."

    and it goes on to list more difference you go can read the rest here, http://www.differencebetween.net/miscellaneous/religion-miscellaneous/difference-between-mormons-and-christians/

    so I agree that Mormons and Christians are the same in the fact that we both believe in Jesus Christ, but the religions themselves differ.

    And please, please don't take anything the wrong way, i'm not trying to be mean at all! I just thought I would share what I found about the differences between the two religious and why people don't believe Mormon's are Christians.

    xoxo

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  8. beautiful girl. thanks for sharing the amazing message. very important for everyone to feel comfortable to share their opinions!!
    and p.s. i wasn't raised mormon but i TOTALLY would have allowed you in my club ;)
    xo TJ

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  9. Thank you for sharing. It was simple, yet sweet. Your Testimony at the end brought me to touched tears :)

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  10. @Cassie, Thanks for your comment! I appreciate it :) I just wanted to say that I do recognize there are major differences between Mormons and other Christian religions, but I am speaking mainly on the definition of a Christian, as being someone who believes that Jesus Christ is their Savior. Mormons do believe that Jesus Christ is their Savior and Redeemer. Mormons actually use and believe in the Kings James version of the Bible along with the Book of Mormon, believed to be another Testament of Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for your input!

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  11. This post was something that I really needed to read today. Thanks doll for posting it!

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  12. amen!!! Don't EVER feel the need to justify your beliefs to anyone. I've dealt with my fair share of people telling me how "I wasn't a good christian" when they don't even know me. Only you know what you believe and your relationship with Jesus :) It sounds like you have a beautiful relationship.

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  13. Isn't it so very sad that the one idea/beleif in life that should bring all human kind together (that of faith/spirituality that there is something bigger than ourseleves made of love and goodness) actually tears us apart more?

    On one hand I do have to agree with Cassie above: The "technical" definitions of what a Chrisitan is and what a Mormon is are very different from each other. Just as Catholics, Baptists, Protestants, etc. are "technically" different from one another. But I think that as the years have gone by and the world has become so open, we have turned the word "Christian" into a word with a different meaning: today, I think it mostly means "I believe in Christ." as opposed to, for example, being in a different "religion" like Budhists who do not.

    And yet another discrepancy is that I've had people passionately tell me they are Catholic yet do not really practice any kind of Catholisism except going to a Catholic church on Sundays. So, whether this is true for you or not, a lot of people are actually labeling themselves something when they may only be slightly understanding what it is they are actually labeling themselves as. (I just don't think the world is as black and white as these labels make it seem; there are only gray shades in life. People can be more than one thing at once, even if those things contradict each other!)

    I absolutely HATE the idea of all these labels, and I especially hate organized "religion" nowadays because instead of uniting all of God's children, it is segregating us into our little labeled groups, growing more and more mean/negative towards one another.

    Just FYI, I am NOT "religious" and do not attend any church, but am very spiritual, and my faith is in God, Jesus, the Bible and prayer, and the most powerful tool God has given us in life which is LOVE!

    Go on being who you are and knowing that if your heart tells you it's right, then you owe no one an explanation!

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  14. mormon.org

    answers lots of questions you might have about LDS members (mormons)

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  15. Way to go my friend! :) I actually wrote a similar post to this one a week or so ago. I could not agree more with you.

    I believe in a lot of things, and tolerance is one of them.

    <3 Daryl
    Roots, Wings, and Other Things.

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  16. Labels. Meh.

    I know many "Christians" who wouldn't even post their beliefs so publicly. Props to you.

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  17. Thanks for standing up for your beliefs.

    Bekah
    If Work Permits

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  18. You are amazing! People will always speak on religion acting like they know every single thing but the truth is nobody does. I am a Baptist Christian and my thing is if you believe in Jesus Christ and God, and believe your faith is what makes your life go round, then you are on the right path! Blessings!

    XOXO,
    Lori
    wwww.vintagebylori.blogspot.com

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  19. As a fellow member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, from San Diego ;), I am so glad that I can proudly stand by you and whole heartedly agree. Sometimes I think a simple statement like this is all that is needed. :)

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  20. Thank you Alycia. And thank you for taking the time to answer questions and comments by your readers. :)

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  21. Awesome post! Totally brightened up an already wonderful Sunday. Interesting to read the comments. Such a great way to share the Gospel!

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  22. If you believe that Jesus died on the cross to save the world from their sins you are Christian. Denomination is not a factor. Denomination is simply the choices we make in the way we worship- and honestly I don't even believe in it.

    I think Jesus actually does not like denominations, when He came to the Earth to fulfill the ultimate "sacrifice" there was ONE church- not a bunch of different "groups" who analyze EACH other and focus on proving each other wrong. Everyone believed that Jesus was God, and that He came to fulfill every prophecy ever made, and every law, and to take on EVERYone's sins. So I don't understand why people bicker about "are they Christian?" As I have already repeated- if you believe Jesus died for everyone's sins and rose from the dead- you are a Christian.

    We are called to go unto the world, and to be brothers and sisters together- not to fight with one another about who is right and who is wrong.

    I think we miss the main mission of Jesus if we overlook the essence of HIS mission.

    That is all.

    Great post.

    Love,

    Makay
    www.thebirdssay.blogspot.com

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  23. My 2 cents: I PERSONALLY think this "debate" in the media is ridiculous. (first of all, what ever happened to separation of church and state ?? To me, it shouldn't matter what faith a political figure holds, but it does apparently matter to some people). I didn't know anything about LDS until I started reading blogs, and I have really appreciated getting to know more about your church. There are many branches of Christianity (INCLUDING Catholocism) and to me Mormons are just a more recent North American branch. It's not my church, but I respect those who belong to it. No one should be judged for their beliefs, and I'm happy you are standing up for yours :)

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  24. this is not about tolerance, as tolerance very often contains a slightly note of arrogance. it is about respect; which I strongly believe is the way to go. respect each other for what they are and for what they believe. we can disagree with each other, but it does not matter what kind of paths we have chosen, if we let others follow theirs. only diversity will make us as human beings complete. as Anna has said, I am happy you're standing up for your beliefs.

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  25. No idea why people feel the need to separate and label others. I think it should be as simple as we're Jesus lovers. That's it- ignore the labels, its just their way of dividing us!

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  26. I commend you for putting yourself out there like this.

    I am a new-ish convert to the LDS church and I love Jesus more than I ever have in my life.

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has given me an even deeper appreciation and love for Jesus than I ever had before. I have always been deeply religious, but now more than ever I can call myself a Christian because I feel that now more than ever I am doing what Jesus wants me to.

    You go, girl.

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  27. Thumbs up to you for posting this! I agree, everyone is entitled to their beliefs. I personally don't and have never judged anyone for their beliefs...at the end of the day we are children of God and only he can have the last word. I'm not to familiar with Moron's, but thank you for sharing this topic and your feelings.

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  28. loved this. love you.

    YOU GO GIRL!!

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  29. Thank you for such a sweet, truthful post, Alycia!

    :)

    For any of you out there who are curious about members of The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints ("Mormons") than please visit mormon.org.

    On mormon.org, members of the church can submit their personal testimonies. You can find mine here: http://mormon.org/me/1WM3-eng/

    I am a CONVERT to the LDS church, and it has brought me more happiness than I could ever explain.

    p.s. I think what Alycia is trying to do in this post is clarify the term, "Christian." She is not saying that all branches of Christianity are exactly the same. We are nicknamed "Mormons" because we believe in The Book of Mormon, which is another testament of Jesus Christ. Just as the New Testament complements the Old Testment, the Book of Mormon complements the New Testament. Again, mormon.org is a great resource to answer any of your questions.

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  30. you have the greatest blog.
    i just did a "i am a child of god" print so decided to check out your lds post..love what you do.
    {love} lauryn @ lovenotesbylauryn.blogspot.com

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  31. I know that the reason Mormons are labeled as non-Christians is because of the Nicene creed, which was written by a bunch of men who got together and made some ground-rules that people had to believe if they want to be called "Christian." But I know that the Mormon church is definitely a Christian church based on the definition that was decided when Chris was on the earth, which is that a person who is a follower of Christ is a "Christian". Mormons follow Christ. In fact, they are the only church on earth that has the same structure as instituted by Christ himself when He was on the earth-of Prophets and Apostles. They are the only church with the fullness of the gospel, though we do believe that if you die without being baptized into the church you can still go to heaven if you have lived a good life. I am so grateful to be a Mormon. I know that it is the Lord's church. And we are Christian according to the original definition.

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  32. BTW, I was also ostracized from the Christian athletic club at my high school. I know how that feels.

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  33. Thank you for sharing it.

    It is important that we share who we are and what we believe in. We're normal people, like everyone else, but highly defined by our relationship with our Heavenly Father and his son, Jesus-Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. I am opening up myself a little bit about my beliefs as well because even if it's on internet, we might clearing up some questions or doubts about our faith.

    And perhaps someone responded to this, but here it is: Christianity is not a religion, it is a belief (we believe in Jesus Christ). Under the umbrella of Christianity there are many religions (Catholics, Protestants, Baptists, Mormons, Evangelicals, etc.). Of course Mormonism and Christianity are not the same, just like any other Christian religion does not equal Christianity in its fullness. Christianity in itself is very simple: Believing that Christ is the Son of God, he died for us, was resurrected, etc. There are different approaches to that belief and thus, the many religions. But as it was said before, all in all, Jesus taught love for one another and inclusion so arguing whether or not we're more or less Christian than others kind of defeats the purpose of Christianity. LOL. We are who we are. If someone wants to know for sure if we're Christians, they can pray and ask Heavenly Father. Then they won't have a doubt. ;)

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  34. Good for you Alycia for putting yourself out there with this post. I'm not religious at all but I think this was really well said and well written. x

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  35. There really is no argument as to whether or not Mormons are Christians. We believe in Jesus Christ and accept him as our savior... that is a fact. Therefore we are Christians. Period. I hate arguing with people about that because in my opinion it is black and white!

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  36. I am so grateful you did a post like this! It honestly baffles me to think that there are actually people out there who don't think we're Christians. If only they could feel even a sliver of my conviction in my testimony of and love for Jesus Christ, I would go so far as to dare them to tell me I'm not a Christian. I respect everyone's opinion, but in case you want a little more insight, this guy says it more eloquently than I ever could:

    http://josephantley.com/2011/10/11/are-mormons-christians/

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  37. Great post! I always thought Mormons practiced Christianity. Your experience goes to show that ignorance leads to prejudice. I thought ALL religions tried to teach tolerance.

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  38. What you said about these statements and the media.. well, I don't know anything about that, since I'm from Spain. But see, the idea that some people live to judge other people and their beliefs never ceases to amaze me. Seriously.
    I mean, I was raised as a Catholic but I'm not into labels anymore. I haven't been into labels since I was 17 (now I'm 28) when I started questioning a lot of things.
    Anyway, the thing is I'm so tired of listening to so much nonsense everyday about religion, politics, even about how one should raise their own children. Really.
    "Why do people look at the speck of sawdust in someone else's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"
    Those people think they don't have a plank in their eye. If you're focused on the speck in somebody else's eye and it's bothering you so much, chances are that whatever you don't like in them, there some of that in you.
    Don't pay too much attention to the media, Alycia. 90% of the things that out there are useless anyway..

    Many blessings, darling

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  39. Hey, lady. Thanks for such an honest post. I respect anyone who is eager and willing to share their love for Jesus--regardless of religion. I agree with many who have posted that being Christian means being saved and redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. I am TECHNICALLY a member of LDS as I was baptized into the church in high school, but I no longer consider myself Mormon, but rather a non-denominational Christian, or even more simply, a follower of Jesus. There are lots of things about the LDS religion that I do not agree with, BUT I don't think it's right to spend time and energy bickering with and alienating other Christians. We should be spreading the love of God and sharing the Gospel of Jesus with the lost and hurting, not debating with other Christians about doctrine and theology. That would make us as bad as the pharisees. There are doctrine that Baptists follow, Methodists follow, Catholics follow, Presbyterians follow, etc... that I do not agree with. But who cares? It's about loving Jesus! My church welcomes Christians from any religion and denomination to join and worship with us, acting as the Church (AKA the body of Christ...not just a building or a service). If we could all work together instead of fighting one another, we could really impact the world through God. Thanks for sharing! And I would let you into my club! The Jesus club! :)

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  40. "Mormons" do believe that Jesus Christ was the only Begotten son of God the Father, not just a prophet...I think Alycia might have meant something different when she referred to
    Him as a prophet??? not sure, but mormon.org answers alot of questions about the LDS faith from LDS people & leadership...not someone who thinks they know about the religion and what is taught. Good job Alycia for posting about your faith. If people looked into the LDS faith and saw what is taught and done...they couldn't deny that Jesus Christ is the founder and leader of the faith.

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  41. @Who is G, I said that he was both a Prophet and the Savior. Maybe I confused people

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  42. I just wanted to take a second to simply say thank you. I love your rawness and your thoughts on your faith. I'm proud that you don't hide or cover over what you believe, but simply state it & live it.

    Jesus said that He was the only way, the truth, and the life & that no man could come to the Father but through Him.

    I think sometimes through the years people have destroyed the name of Christianity but what more is it to be a Christian but to follow Christ? To be an ordinary radical & to live faith out loud.

    Keep living- people who judge will always judge...Jesus never said it would be easy, but he did say it would be worth it :)

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  43. Christian = loving and following Christ. Yes, you are a Christian, sorry you've run up against people who think otherwise. I am also called a "Mormon" by some people, but belong to the Church of Christ, a group which left the LDS when Brigham Young introduced some doctrines, (the group holding the Temple Lot in Independence, MO - for fellow "Mormons" reading this). I think alot of the issues regarding "are Mormons Christian" center around things like everyone getting their own planet and multiple spirit wives, etc. In the LDS D&C it says you CANNOT inherit the celestial kingdom unless you have multiple wives...hmmm... what about the Apostle Paul? It's things like that which bring up the questions about whether LDS are "Christians"...

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  44. I love when people stand up for our church. It makes me so happy. There are so many people out there who try to bring us down... we are stronger than that. They should know that by now :)

    To the people who say Mormons are not Christian - False. We are very much Christians. Mormons are Christian but not all Christians are Mormon. Obviously.

    Thank you for sharing. I loved that.

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  45. Hi Alycia,

    I felt compelled to comment on this. First of all, you are beautiful inside & out. This is YOUR blog-- a place to share what's on YOUR heart, your mind... YOUR FAITH, your heart's desires, etc.

    Over the month of October, I did an ad swap with a bunch of different people. I had some sponsors join that were Mormon. When I featured their sponsor bios, I got grief about it by "Christians."

    I go to a non-denominational church and understand that everyone comes from different walks of faith, different churches, etc. When it comes to the blogging world, I won't stand for people who exclude others and that's not what my blog is about. So I just want you to know this... hope it encourages you to know that I personally think that it all comes down to MUTUAL RESPECT and that I admire you for talking boldly about your faith.

    <3 Heather

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  46. I recently mentioned this in a post too!! Beautifully written!! xo

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  47. I really appreciate this post :) I know it must have taken a lot of courage.

    Its unfortunate that we all build up stereo types and false assumptions about other religions. I wish people would make more effort to become educated on different denominations and their beliefs.

    I am not part of LDS but bloggers like yourself have really educated me on all of the wonderful things about LDS. I am Catholic and so many people misunderstand us and our beliefs as well.

    Thanks again for this post, I know there are lots of people out there who have benefited from reading this :)

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Howdy Ho :) Thanks for stopping by my blog! I have enabled the forum feature on my comments so we can all interact in conversation. So if you leave a question, look back for a reply!