Salvation by Faith Alone: Biblical Truth vs. LDS Claims

The question of salvation is indeed central to Christianity, and it is true that various Christian traditions differ on how salvation is received. However, when examining the core teachings of Scripture, there are essential truths that transcend denominational debates and provide a firm foundation for understanding salvation through Jesus Christ.

First, salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by any human ordinance or ritual, though God’s ordained means often include such ordinances. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT) declares, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast.” This clearly teaches salvation is a gift from God, received by faith, not earned by baptism or any other act.

Baptism is important as a public declaration of faith and obedience to Christ (Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus Himself was baptized (Matthew 3:13-17), and the early church practiced baptism (Acts 2:38-41). Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-5). However, baptism itself does not save; it is faith in Christ that saves (Galatians 3:27). The thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43) was promised paradise without baptism, demonstrating that salvation is not dependent on the ordinance but on trusting Christ.

Regarding the laying on of hands for the Holy Spirit, Acts 8 and 19 describe this as part of the early church’s practice. Yet the Holy Spirit is given by faith in Christ (Galatians 3:14), and the Spirit’s work is not limited by ritual but by God’s sovereign grace.

The claim that proxy baptism for the dead was “lost” and restored by Joseph Smith is not supported by clear New Testament teaching. The only reference, 1 Corinthians 15:29, is ambiguous and debated by biblical scholars; it does not establish a doctrinal basis for baptisms for the dead. The Bible emphasizes personal repentance and faith during one’s earthly life as necessary for salvation (Hebrews 9:27).

Moreover, the New Testament affirms that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). No human priesthood or ordinance can guarantee salvation apart from faith in Him.

The assertion that Joseph Smith restored the “lost” structure of priesthood authority and ordinances conflicts with biblical warnings about adding to or altering God’s revelation (Revelation 22:18-19). The apostolic gospel was complete, sufficient, and preserved by the Holy Spirit.

In summary, salvation rests on Christ’s atoning work, received by grace through faith. Baptism and the laying on of hands are important acts of obedience and faith, but they do not save by themselves. The notion of proxy baptism and a restored priesthood authority as necessary for salvation departs from biblical teaching and risks obscuring the simple, powerful gospel of Jesus Christ.

Key Scripture References (NLT):

Ephesians 2:8-9

Romans 6:3-5

Galatians 3:27

Luke 23:39-43

Hebrews 9:27

Acts 4:12

Matthew 28:19-20

Revelation 22:18-19



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