Secret Doctrines and Temple Rituals
If you thought the origins of Mormonism were surprising, wait until you hear about the secret doctrines and temple rituals that keep members deeply invested in the faith. From a Christian perspective, these practices raise serious concerns because they replace or obscure the centrality of Jesus Christ and Scripture. Joseph Smith introduced temple ceremonies in the 1840s, long after the church was founded. Members enter these temples for rituals such as washings, anointings, and endowments, which are designed to prepare them for exaltation. One of the striking features is the secrecy—members are instructed not to reveal details of these ceremonies to outsiders, even family. This level of secrecy is unusual for a Christian faith, where transparency and shared teaching of Scripture are central. Another critical element is the Mormon doctrine of eternal marriage and exaltation. Members are taught that only through temple sealing can families be united for eternity, and that faithful adhere...