How to Witness to Mormons 

by John L. Smith and Michael H. Reynolds

Introduction

Leading Mormons to Christ requires special effort. Our love for Mormons should compel us to show the love of Christ to them. Since they usually do not recognize a need, they do not understand themselves to be sinners, and they question the Bible's authority, a special technique and skill will be needed. New Testament Christians had similar problems when they worked with religious people who were apparently satisfied (see Acts 8:25 ; Romans 10:1-3).

Do not be discouraged if a Mormon does not accept Christ on the first visit. Several visits will probably be necessary. All witnessing is the culmination of building relationships. It will take longer than normal to build a relationship of trust with a Mormon. Keep these guidelines in mind when witnessing to a Mormon:

1.It is important when witnessing to Mormons that Biblical methods be used. Don't confuse timidity with meekness. One can be meek yet bold. Peter and John were bold (see Acts 4:13 ). Paul was also bold (see Acts 9:27 -29; 17:2,10-17; 18:4,26; 19:8-9).

2.Paul used non-Christian authorities (see Acts 17:28 ; Titus 1:12 ). To follow this biblical example when presenting a Christian witness, Mormon sources may be used.

3.Keep in mind that Mormons use our terms with their meanings. Don't let this throw you.

a. Salvation=resurrection

b. God=an exalted man

c. Gospel=Mormonism

d. Eternal life=godhood

e. Heaven=a place with different levels where practically everyone goes

Method

You must be wise yet humble. Humility is not weakness, but the opposite of pride. Do not be defensive. Do not try out your newfound witnessing technique on the returned missionary at first. It is not necessary for you to explain difficult passages in the Bible. Your attempt to explain the unusual Mormon concepts, such as baptism for the dead, will not contribute to winning the Mormon. Mormons have not been known to be won by these techniques. You are on the defensive when you allow yourself to be cornered with these obscure passages. These passages are irrelevant and distracting in attempting to win a Mormon to Christ. If for some reason the Mormon wishes to use the Bible, be sure and ask him or her to read an entire section or chapter to get the context clear.

Use the following conversation outline when preparing to witness to a Mormon.

1. Ask, "What do you believe about God?" Get the Mormon to commit him or herself.

a. Ask, "Do you accept the statement: ‘As man is, God once was; as God is, man may become?’ This is not found in any of the standard works." This should surprise the Mormon, and he or she will probably be amazed that you know this. This will allow you to maintain the initiative.

b. Ask, "Does God have a body, fingers, toes, etc.?" (Pause between each question for an affirmative answer.)

c. Ask, "Is He married?"

d. Ask, "Does He have parents?"

e. Ask, "Is He changing?"

f. Ask, "Is there more than one God?"

g. Ask, "Since God is an exalted man, was there ever a time when He was not God?"

2.Then say, "What if I could show you that the Book of Mormon does not teach these things? Would it disturb you? Would you agree that something is wrong if I show you? Do you want truth? Would you accept it if I show it to you?"

3.Show your Book of Mormon. The following suggested passages should be underlined in the text. Do not allow the Mormon to change the subject. Maintain the initiative. Do not discuss other subjects. Do not let him or her get back to questions about obscure passages in the Bible. Keep the initiative. Stay on the offensive (just as Paul did).

4.Use these suggested passages from the Book of Mormon.

a. Only one God

1) Last sentence of "The Testimony of Three Witnesses" (Book of Mormon)

2) Alma 11:22 , 28-29 (Note especially verses 28-29)

3) Alma 11:38 -39

4)Statement in the second paragraph on the title page in capitals, "JESUS is the CHRIST, the ETERNAL GOD." Remind him or her that this is his or her book. It is supposed to contain no error. There is no problem of translation.

5)You might turn to Mosiah 15:2-5 to show the relationship of Jesus and God and the fact that they are not two, but one.

b. God Unchanging

1)Mormon 9:9-11,19

2) Moroni 7:22

3) Moroni 8:18

c.God is (not has) a spirit (The Bible says this only once—The Book of Mormon twice).

1) Alma 18:24-28

2) Alma 22:9-11

5.Then say, "It is evident that there is something wrong! Mormonism and the Book of Mormon do not agree! In fact, they differ greatly. Jesus said: ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me’ (John 14:6). The prophet is not the way, a restoration is not the way, Mormonism is not the way, the priesthood is not the way—Jesus said, ‘I AM THE WAY!’"

6.It is imperative to maintain the initiative. If the Mormon does not make a profession of faith at this point, read Mosiah 27:24-28. Remind the Mormon that he or she must have a new birth in order to become a child of God (v. 25b). This strongly contradicts Mormonism. Ask if he or she has had this experience.

7. Read Alma 5:14. This change or new birth is necessary.

8. Read Alma 5:26.

9.3 Nephi 9:17 tells how to become sons of God (this is similar to John 1:12 -14). Use this passage, but stay on the subject of this change being necessary. Do not let the Mormon change the topic. Stay with this proposition, and keep the initiative.

10.Say, "Mormonism and the Book of Mormon do not agree. Something is wrong! The book demands a new birth, a change." Stand up to the Mormon. Do not lose the initiative.

11.Ask again, "Have you been born again? When?

12. Now share the plan of salvation you feel most comfortable with.

Conclusion

When the Mormon accepts Christ, if at all possible, show that he or she must not continue to be a part of something that teaches error or places the emphasis on the wrong things. As a new-born Christian, help him or her see the obligation to win other Mormons. It is important not to press him or her for church membership at this point. The Holy Spirit will help with this point. The Mormon is making a big change and is leaving culture, religion, and possibly family behind. You should be prepared to stand by and encourage this new Christian.