What are the differences between Pentecostals and Mormons?

Answer 1

Both Pentecostals and Mormons (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) are Christian movements emphasizing direct personal experiences with God, but they have many differences in doctrine and practice.

Differences include:

*Pentecostals typically believe that The Bible is infallible and interpret it literally. Mormons believe the Bible was passed down and translated by men, therefore having some mistakes, and that it should be interpreted both literally and symbolically.

*Mormons believe that baptism is essential for salvation, but Pentecostals do not (except Oneness Pentecostals)

*Pentecostals are Trinitarian, Mormons are Non-Trinitarian (except Oneness Pentecostals)

*Pentecostals believe that 'dancing in the Spirit' and speaking in unkown tongues are manifestations of the Spirit. Mormons do not believe in dancing in the Spirit and believe the speaking in tongues refers only to speaking in tongues known to those in the congregation.

*Pentecostal worship services tend to be loud and active. Mormon worship services tend to be quiet and contemplative.

*In worship services, Pentecostals typically have a sermon given by a pastor or church leader, Mormons typically have a handful of sermons given by members of the congregation.

*Mormons believe in many things not present in most Pentecostal groups, such as salvation for the dead, eternal marriage, essential saving ordinances, scripture in addition to the Bible, Priesthood authority, and a modern prophet.

*Mormons are considered a Restorationist tradition, while Pentecostals are typically considered a Protestant tradition.

Similarities include:

*Emphasis on having personal experiences with God

*Belief in modern spiritual gifts, such as prophesy, healing, and speaking in tongues, although have different definitions for these gifts

*Both believe in the idea of dispensationalism

*Both believe the Holy Spirit is at work within us

*Both practice baptism by immersion

*Both believe we are in the 'Last Days' before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ

*Both practice the Communion (Mormons call it Sacrament)

*Both believe Salvation comes through Jesus Christ

*Both teach their congregants to live moral, family-centered lifestyles

*Both Mormons and Pentecostals tend to be quite religious, and consider their religion an active lifestyle, not a passive Sunday-only activity.

*Both are quite active in sharing their beliefs with others

To learn more about Pentecostals and Mormons, check out the "Related Links" below.