Most of the Christian world understands the word "resurrection" to mean rising from the dead. Many wonder, "Do Mormons believe in a resurrection?"
The answer is "yes" – Mormons do believe in resurrection. But members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) understand the doctrine of the resurrection a little differently than most other faith groups.
Definition of Resurrection
Christians believe that Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross and buried in a cave-like structure like the one pictured below. A large stone was rolled over the cave entrance, but on the third day after Jesus' death, followers found the stone rolled away and the tomb was empty. Christians believe that Christ rose from the dead, or resurrected.
Mormon Resurrection Doctrines
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that Jesus Christ was the first person to be resurrected, opening the door for the rest of humankind to be resurrected after death. In LDS terminology, resurrection means that:
- The spirit and body are reunited; and
- The body becomes immortal and perfect, never to be subject to illness or death again.
Paul in the New Testament explains that "we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body." [Philippians 3: 20-21]
Scriptural Support for Jesus' Physical Resurrection
Resurrection scriptures like Philippians 3: 20-21 make clear the reality of Christ's bodily resurrection, and these writings indicate that this was not just an allegorical or symbolic resurrection. The tomb was empty when Jesus rose from the dead.
Other scriptural evidence includes the resurrected Christ assuring His disciples of His "flesh and bones" and instructing them to feel the wounds in His hands and feet (see Luke 24: 36-43.)
What Happens to People When They Die?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that resurrection is a gift given to all humankind. However, it is important to note that "resurrection" is only the reuniting of body and spirit, not necessarily synonymous with "exaltation" or "eternal life."
Once resurrected, Mormons believe that all people are believed to be judged by Jesus Christ and assigned to a degree of glory consistent with their faithfulness during their lives.
Resurrection is Only Half of Christ's Atonement
Mormons believe that Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice overcame both physical and spiritual death. The resurrection made it possible for humankind to be rejoined with their bodies, but Christ's sufferings in Gethsemane made it possible to be forgiven for sin and reunited with God in heaven.
When Mormons celebrate Easter each spring to commemorate Christ's resurrection, they give thanks for both parts of the two-fold atonement.
The Christian resurrection is a widely held doctrine that is often understood differently by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons firmly believe in the literal bodily resurrection of Christ, and that because of Him all humankind will be resurrected as well.
Readers might also be interested in Are Mormons Christians?
Source:
- The Holy Bible, King James Version. Salt Lake City: Intellectual Reserve, 1979.
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