Authoritarian Structure and Control
When you look at the Mormon Church today, one of the things that stands out is its highly centralized authority. From a Christian perspective, this structure raises concerns because it puts immense power in the hands of a few leaders rather than emphasizing God’s guidance through Scripture and the Holy Spirit. At the top of the hierarchy are the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. These leaders make decisions that affect doctrine, daily life, finances, and discipline for millions of members worldwide. Local congregations have little autonomy, and members are expected to follow instructions without question. This structure reinforces loyalty and obedience to human authority over personal discernment in light of biblical teaching. The church also exercises strict discipline through excommunication and shunning. Members who question doctrine, leadership, or policies can be formally disciplined, and in some cases, ostracized from their community. This type of social con...