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The Debate on Whether Mormons (the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) are Christians is Settled Because Donald Trump Says So
Trump’s America and the Weaponization of Religious Identity
The debate on whether Mormons are Christians began as soon as the church was founded in 1830. Joseph Smith was the founder and first President of the LDS Church. He also went by the titles of prophet, seer, and revelator.
When the Church of Christ (later LDS) was organized on April 6, 1830, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were both given the title of Elder. In early revelations, Smith was also referred to as an apostle of Jesus Christ, placing him in continuity with New Testament leadership.
As he produced the Book of Mormon and later revelations, Smith was formally sustained by followers as a seer, translator, prophet, apostle of Jesus Christ, and Elder of the church. These titles emphasized his unique role as the one who restored lost scripture and divine authority.
In 1832, Smith was recognized as the President of the High Priesthood, which effectively made him the presiding officer of the entire church. By 1835, this role was codified as President of the Church, a title still used today for LDS leaders.
