The Gospel According to Joseph Smith: A Christian Response to Mormon Teaching

by Ethan E Harris B.A. Th.M.

An encounter with a Mormon in the Army National Guard launched Ethan E. Harris on this study and analysis of Mormon theology. Extensive contact with members of the LDS since then has exposed him to many Mormon claims and arguments, some of which have not been dealt with in other Christian books on the subject.  To expound LDS views, Harris restricts himself to primary sources, seeking to avoid setting up straw men. He intends this work to be used by Christians, not only to learn more about Mormon beliefs, but also to evangelize Mormon missionaries and acquaintances. As the LDS finds itself in the midst of what the Christian Research Journal calls "enormous international growth and unprecedented public relations success," evangelical Christians must continue to study Mormonism and point out its inconsistencies with Scripture.   "Ethan E. Harris's critique of Mormonism is a valuable contribution. He approaches the topic in a unique and effective way, thereby providing Christian apologists and other students of Mormonism a very useful tool." R. C. Sproul   "A good introduction to the serious differences between Mormonism and the historic Christian faith." Ronald Nash  "Clearly, logically, and forcefully exposes the heretical nature of Mormonism. This work both challenges the confused Mormon and instructs Christians how to reach Mormons with the true gospel. I enthusiastically endorse this able and devastating critique." Kenneth L. Gentry Jr.

Genres: Mormonism, Christian, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Aaron Endsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book, and I would suggest this book to any Christian who has friends who are Mormon. I loved how the author showed the importance of knowing your bible as He would show Mormon doctrine and then show how scripture would disagree with their doctrine. I appreciated that this book was not filled with gotcha one liners but genuine examination of the issues. And I appreciated that the author seems to have a genuine care for Mormons. The author through out the book directly and indirectly points to our need for Christ and Christ alone for our salvation, something that even as we examine false beliefs, we should be always reminded of.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is pleasantly easy to understand. I admire how Harris uses the Mormons' own quotes and books (The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Gospel Principles, etc.) to contradict their own teachings. I never realized how many of their doctrines have such crumbly foundations.
My only qualm was regarding the last chapter - stories of conversion to Christianity from Mormonism. There were a few testimonies that really focused on what God did for these people, while I felt that others were more charismatic in nature, i.e. visions.
Overall, a fantastic, eye-opening book. Well-researched and put together.

[Christopher · Rating 2 out of 5]

Harris provides a great deal of useful information, mostly by citing/interacting with primary resources from within the Mormon church; however, he attempts to cover too much terrain too quickly, which makes most of his arguments come across as under-baked.

[laurenpie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eye-opening and interesting. Looking back, 10 years after reading, I'm not sure why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.. in my memory it was quite informative and effective.