Do Mormons Worship Joseph Smith?
The short answer is no, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often mistakenly called Mormons) do not worship Joseph Smith. This is a crucial distinction often misunderstood by those outside the faith. While Joseph Smith holds a significant place in Latter-day Saint theology and history, he is not considered a deity or object of worship. The central focus of Latter-day Saint worship is Jesus Christ.
However, understanding the nuanced role of Joseph Smith requires a deeper look into Latter-day Saint beliefs.
What is Joseph Smith's Role in Mormonism?
Joseph Smith is revered as a prophet, seer, and revelator. Members believe he was divinely chosen to restore the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth in the latter days. This restoration, according to their beliefs, included the re-establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ, the restoration of priesthood authority, and the revelation of additional scriptures, including the Book of Mormon.
Therefore, while not worshipped, Joseph Smith is deeply respected and honored for his role in restoring the Church. He's seen as an instrument through which God communicated with humanity, not as a god himself.
What Do Mormons Worship?
Mormons worship God the Father and Jesus Christ. They believe in the Holy Ghost as a third member of the Godhead. Their worship services center around prayer, scripture study, hymns, and sermons focused on Christ's teachings and the principles of the gospel. The sacrament, a symbolic representation of Christ's sacrifice, is a central part of their weekly worship.
How is Joseph Smith Remembered and Honored?
Joseph Smith is remembered and honored in several ways:
- Temple ordinances: The temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints feature ordinances that commemorate significant events in his life and ministry.
- Historical accounts and stories: His life story is studied and shared extensively within the faith, emphasizing his spiritual experiences and unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
- Art and literature: Joseph Smith is depicted in art, literature, and other forms of media that portray his life and legacy.
Why is this a common misconception?
The misconception likely arises from several factors:
- The significant role of Joseph Smith: The central role of Joseph Smith in the history and doctrine of the Church leads some to mistakenly equate reverence with worship.
- Limited understanding of Mormon theology: Without a proper understanding of Latter-day Saint theology, it's easy to misinterpret the significance of Joseph Smith within the faith.
- Misinformation and negative portrayals: Misinformation and negative portrayals of the faith in the media often contribute to inaccurate perceptions.
In conclusion, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not worship Joseph Smith. He is considered a prophet of God, instrumental in restoring the Church, but their worship is directed solely towards God the Father and Jesus Christ. Understanding this distinction requires a deeper understanding of their beliefs and theology.
