The Three Nephites — A Mormon Doctrine That Challenges Biblical Truth

Among the many unique teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), the doctrine of the Three Nephites stands out for its remarkable claim: that three ancient disciples of Jesus Christ were granted immortality and continue to minister secretly among humanity to this day. This teaching, found exclusively in LDS scripture—the Book of Mormon—asserts that these “translated” beings never taste death and work quietly to bring souls to Christ (3 Nephi 28). While this belief may inspire faith within Mormon circles, it starkly contrasts with biblical teachings and exemplifies how LDS doctrine diverges from historic Christianity.

The story originates in the Book of Mormon, specifically in the book of 3 Nephi. Here, Jesus grants special power to twelve disciples in the Americas. Three of these disciples request to remain on earth until Jesus’ Second Coming to continue their ministry without experiencing death. According to LDS belief, these three Nephites remain immortal on earth, invisibly guiding and assisting humankind.

From a biblical standpoint, the idea of immortal humans walking the earth is deeply problematic. Scripture is clear that death and judgment are universal: Hebrews 9:27 states, “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment” (NLT). No one else besides Enoch and Elijah are noted as being taken to heaven without dying, and there is no scriptural precedent for others remaining indefinitely on earth as unseen ministers.

Hebrews 1:1-2 teaches that God once spoke through the prophets but now has spoken fully through His Son, Jesus Christ. The New Testament closes the canon of Scripture, emphasizing that believers should rely on the completed Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). There is no biblical support for new, secret ministries or revelations outside of Scripture.

The Bible cautions believers to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) and warns about “another Jesus” and “another gospel” (Galatians 1:6-9). Any doctrine introducing hidden agents or new revelations not grounded in Scripture runs counter to biblical Christianity.

The Three Nephites doctrine highlights classic markers of cultic theology. It relies on LDS scriptures, not the Bible, to substantiate its claims. It suggests unseen agents work invisibly among humanity—something Scripture never supports. And it elevates Joseph Smith’s revelations above the sufficiency of biblical Scripture. These features clearly distinguish Mormonism from historic Christian faith and reveal a departure from biblical truth.

Christians affirm the sufficiency of Jesus Christ and the Bible. The apostle Paul exhorts believers not to add or subtract from God’s Word (Deuteronomy 4:2). Salvation and guidance come through Christ alone, whose life, death, and resurrection stand as the final and full revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2).

While respecting Mormon believers as fellow seekers of truth, it is vital to recognize the Three Nephites teaching for what it is: a doctrine without biblical foundation that leads away from the gospel’s simplicity and sufficiency.

Source Bibliography

The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers, 1996.
       Hebrews 1:1-2, Hebrews 9:27, 2 Timothy 3:16-17,           Galatians 1:6-9, 1 John 4:1, Deuteronomy 4:2

The Book of Mormon. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830.

3 Nephi 28, Book of Mormon.


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