Evangelical View:
In Evangelical Christianity, the belief in God being once a man is not compatible with mainstream teachings. Evangelicals believe in the concept of God as an eternal, unchanging, omnipotent being who has always existed as God and will always be God. This belief is based on the idea that God is infinite and beyond the limitations of humanity.
LDS / Mormon View:
In contrast, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as Mormons, do believe in the concept that God was once a man. This belief is derived from the teachings of early LDS Church leaders, including Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, who taught that God the Father was once a mortal man who lived a righteous life and progressed to become a God. This belief is often referred to as the doctrine of eternal progression.
Key Differences:
1. View of God: Evangelicals see God as an eternal and unchanging being, while Mormons believe that God was once a mortal man who progressed to become a God.
2. Understanding of Deity: Evangelicals believe in the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches that God exists as three persons in one essence (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Mormons believe in the concept of the Godhead, consisting of separate beings: God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
3. Source of Belief: Evangelicals base their beliefs on the Bible as the primary source of divine revelation. Mormons not only use the Bible but also believe in additional scriptures such as the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.
Despite these differences, both Evangelicals and Mormons share a common belief in the importance of faith in Jesus Christ and recognizing Him as the Savior and Redeemer. Although differing in their understanding of God’s nature, both groups seek to live their lives in accordance with the teachings of Jesus and strive to spread His message of love and salvation to others.
