Mormonism’s Mirror: The Double Standard No One Talks About
Within Mormonism, a striking double standard is evident: while the movement criticizes Christianity for having tens of thousands of denominations, it overlooks the fact that Mormonism itself has splintered into numerous factions, each claiming exclusive authority from Joseph Smith. From the mainstream LDS Church to the Community of Christ, Fundamentalist LDS groups, and other smaller sects, the pattern is clear—authority is claimed, fractured, and disputed.
This raises a simple question: if Mormonism’s critique of Christianity’s diversity is valid, shouldn’t it apply equally to the movement itself? For a faith that claims to restore the “true church of Jesus Christ,” how can internal divisions be reconciled with the idea of divine guidance and unity? The inconsistency is glaring. While Mormon leaders emphasize obedience to the chain of authority, they ignore the historical fact that these very claims have led to dozens of competing organizations, each asserting their version of Smith’s vision.
Biblical context provides clarity. Scripture repeatedly warns against false teachers and divisions among believers. Paul exhorted the Corinthians: “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought” (1 Corinthians 1:10). Yet Mormonism itself, in its history and contemporary practice, demonstrates fragmentation rather than unity.
Furthermore, the Book of Mormon and Doctrine & Covenants affirm prophetic authority and succession, but the historical record shows multiple interpretations and claims. For example:
LDS Church (Salt Lake): Maintains Joseph Smith’s prophetic mantle through Brigham Young’s succession.
Community of Christ (Independence, Missouri): Traces authority differently, rejecting Brigham Young.
Fundamentalist LDS Groups: Follow separate prophetic lines and often practice polygamy in contrast to mainstream LDS teachings.
Each claims divine sanction for its teachings and ordinances, yet they cannot all be correct. This is not merely a theological quibble—it is a practical demonstration that Mormonism, like any human-led movement, is susceptible to division and disagreement.
The irony is undeniable: Mormonism criticizes Christianity’s multiplicity of denominations while its own history mirrors the exact scenario it condemns. Critics of Christianity are quick to highlight doctrinal diversity as evidence of error, yet the internal conflicts and factionalism of Mormonism are often ignored or justified under the guise of “continuing revelation.”
In short, the double standard is clear. If diversity and disagreement among believers are cited as proof of error in Christianity, the same standard must logically be applied to Mormonism. Scripture reminds us that God desires unity and truth, not confusion or competing claims: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). The lesson is simple: when evaluating the validity of a faith, internal consistency and adherence to divine truth are non-negotiable.
Bible Verses (NLT):
1 Corinthians 1:10 – “…that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
1 Timothy 4:1 – “…some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.”
Titus 1:10-11 – “…there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group.”
Sources:
Armstrong, Karen. The Bible: A Biography. Atlantic Monthly Press, 2007.
Bushman, Richard Lyman. Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling. Alfred A. Knopf, 2005.
MacCulloch, Diarmaid. Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years. Viking, 2009.
Quinn, D. Michael. The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power. Signature Books, 1997.
Encyclopedia of Mormonism. “LDS Denominations.” Macmillan Publishing, 1992.
Pew Research Center. “Mormonism in the United States.” Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 2012.
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