Good Friday: Jesus Christ & Mormon Beliefs

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reveres Jesus Christ. Good Friday is a Christian holiday. The atonement of Jesus Christ is the central tenet of Mormon belief. Mormon theology teaches the significance of every day in Holy Week, including Good Friday.

Okay, let’s dive right in! Ever heard of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? Yeah, that’s us – sometimes known as the LDS Church or, informally, Mormons. We’ve got a way of seeing the world, a set of beliefs, that’s, well, uniquely ours. Think of it as our special flavor of Christianity. We treasure the Bible, but we also have other scriptures, like the Book of Mormon, that add extra layers of understanding about God’s plan.

Now, two big days roll around every year in the Christian world: Good Friday and Easter. Good Friday is all about remembering when Jesus Christ was crucified – a pretty heavy day, right? Then, BAM! Easter bursts onto the scene, shouting about Jesus’s Resurrection! It’s like the ultimate comeback story and the most joyous day!

So, what’s the deal with the LDS Church and these holidays? Do we do the whole Good Friday thing? How do we celebrate Easter? That’s exactly what we’re going to unpack here. We’ll explore how our beliefs jive (or don’t) with these days and shed some light on the LDS perspective. Think of this as your friendly guide to understanding how we see these significant Christian events. We are always focused on Jesus Christ as the central figure of the restored gospel.

Jesus Christ: The Cornerstone of LDS Faith

Okay, let’s dive into something super important in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Jesus. Seriously, He’s not just a part of it, He is it. Imagine building a house, right? Jesus is the foundation. You can’t have the rest of the house without a solid foundation! In LDS theology, everything—and I mean everything—circles back to Him. He is the absolute, without any doubt, cornerstone of our faith.

So, why all the fuss about Jesus? Well, let’s get into His credentials: He’s divine, like, literally God’s Son. And get this: He wasn’t just born in Bethlehem. We believe He had a pre-mortal existence. He was with God in the beginning, helping with the whole creation gig. Then He came to Earth to be our Savior, our Redeemer, the One who paid the ultimate price. It is a really important thing to understand in Mormon believes.

Now, where do we get all this info? Not just from Sunday School, that’s for sure. Our scriptures—the Bible (yes, we use the King James Version), the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price—are packed with testimonies of Jesus Christ. Each one adds its own flavor and perspective, giving us a fuller picture of who He is and what He did. The Book of Mormon, for instance, is subtitled “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” Not exactly subtle, right? It’s brimming with stories and teachings that point us right back to Him. It’s just a way to show that God has always shown that He cares for all of His children.

In short, if you want to understand The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, start with Jesus. He’s the key, the map, and the treasure all rolled into one. And trust me, the treasure is worth it.

The Atonement: Jesus Christ Paid it All… For Everyone!

Okay, let’s dive into the Atonement – that massive, universe-changing event that’s kind of a big deal in the LDS faith. The LDS understanding of the Atonement is that it’s infinite and eternal. Think of it like this: it’s not just a one-time payment for past sins, but a constant, ever-present source of healing, forgiveness, and strength that applies to the past, present, and yes, even the future.

This Atonement? It’s not just about wiping the slate clean. It’s about making us better, stronger, and more capable of becoming like our Heavenly Parents. It’s like having a superpower upgrade! This is where the “enabling power of the Atonement” comes in. It’s not just a get-out-of-jail-free card; it’s the strength we need to change, to grow, and to reach our divine potential, paving the path for both salvation and exaltation, the ultimate prize.

Resurrection: He Did That for Us Too!

Now, let’s talk about the Resurrection. You might say “Yeah, yeah, Jesus rose from the dead. We know.” But hear us out, the literal Resurrection of Jesus Christ is an absolute cornerstone of the LDS faith. It really happened. It wasn’t symbolic; it was a historical, earth-shattering event. The Book of Mormon and other scriptures testify of this truth.

And guess what? Because Jesus pulled off the ultimate comeback, He made it possible for all of us to do the same. The LDS Church believes in the universal resurrection of all mankind. Yep, you, me, everyone who’s ever lived will be resurrected. Pretty amazing, right?

Eternal Families: Sticking Together… Forever!

But wait, there’s more! The Resurrection isn’t just about getting a new, improved body. It opens the door to eternal life, continued progression, and the beautiful, comforting concept of eternal families. Because Jesus conquered death, families can be together forever! Through temple sealings, those bonds we cherish here on Earth can extend into eternity, providing hope and connection beyond this mortal life. Now that’s a family plan worth signing up for, right?

Easter Observance: A Celebration of the Resurrection

Easter Sunday in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is like the Super Bowl of Sundays, but instead of touchdowns, we’re celebrating the ultimate victory—Jesus Christ’s triumph over death! It’s a day when we pull out our Sunday best, not just clothes-wise, but spiritually, too, focusing with all our hearts on the Resurrection. Forget the Easter Bunny for a hot minute (though chocolate eggs are still welcome, let’s be real); for us, it’s all about Christ’s glorious return to life.

You’ll find that LDS congregations put a huge emphasis on Easter. Picture this: sermons that will give you chills (the good kind!), talks that make you think, and music that’ll have you reaching for a tissue. Speaking of music, get ready to belt out some powerful hymns. Think “He is Risen” which is like the “We Are the Champions” of Easter, and “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” which can fill even the most skeptical hearts with hope. These aren’t just songs; they’re testimonies, declarations, a real celebration!

The special services are designed to help members feel closer to Jesus Christ and better understand the Atonement. It’s more than just attending a meeting; it’s about making time for reflection. As you sit there, whether it’s on a hard chapel pew or your comfy couch at home (thanks, technology!), it’s a moment to ponder Jesus Christ’s incredible sacrifice and the miracle of the Resurrection. This is a serious moment for self-reflection and spiritual growth. It’s a time to remember that because of Christ, we can all have a second chance. It’s a renewal of faith, a chance to hit the reset button, and keep moving forward with hope in our hearts!

Good Friday: A Day of Remembrance and Reflection?

Okay, let’s talk Good Friday in the LDS world. So, does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have official Good Friday services marked on the calendar like a giant red circle? The short answer is no, not really. You won’t find any specific Good Friday programs, services, or events officially designated in the Church’s calendar.

Official Statements and the Silence on Good Friday

But before you think we’re ignoring a big part of the Christian story, hear me out! If you go digging through official Church statements looking for a declaration on Good Friday, you might come up empty-handed. There isn’t a dedicated document or announcement specifically addressing the day. This might leave some scratching their heads, wondering if the LDS Church acknowledges the significance of Good Friday at all.

Everyday Remembrance: Sacrifice, Suffering, and Redemption Throughout the Year

Now, here’s the twist. While there might not be a Good Friday party (if that were a thing!), the themes that Good Friday brings to mind—sacrifice, suffering, and redemption—are woven into the very fabric of LDS worship and teachings all year round. Think of it like this: instead of one big splash on Good Friday, it’s a continuous, gentle stream throughout the year. These themes bubble up in Sunday sermons, lessons, hymns, and especially during the sacrament (Communion) service, which is a weekly reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is so central to the Church’s doctrine, that it’s not just something we think about on one day; it’s a constant focus and reminder. We are continually invited to remember the Savior’s sacrifice and reflect on what it means for each of us personally, making it a very important, and constantly present element of our faith journey.

Theological Alignments and Divergences: Where We Meet and Where We Part Ways

Okay, let’s talk about where Latter-day Saints see eye-to-eye with our Christian brothers and sisters, and where our paths diverge a bit on the theological map. Think of it like a family reunion – lots of love and common ground, but maybe a few different recipes for Grandma’s famous potato salad!

First off, let’s celebrate the common ground! We absolutely venerate Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, death, and resurrection. It’s the core of what we believe, just like for so many other Christians. We join in the chorus of praise for His selfless act of love. The sheer magnitude of His sacrifice is something we deeply ponder and cherish. There’s a shared emphasis on personal reflection concerning Jesus Christ’s suffering and the immense love demonstrated through his Atonement. We’re all about that deep, personal connection with the Savior.

Now, for the interesting part – where our theological potato salads differ a smidge. You know, the nuances. One area is the understanding of the Atonement itself. While we, like other Christians, believe in the grace of Christ as essential, we also emphasize the importance of works – not as a means of earning salvation, but as a demonstration of our faith and love for God. It’s like, grace provides the canvas, and our actions paint the picture of our discipleship.

Then there are the distinctive LDS doctrines – the ones that make our theological fingerprint unique. Think about the Plan of Salvation (aka the Plan of Happiness). It’s our comprehensive view of why we’re here, where we came from, and where we’re going. The idea of Eternal Progression, that we can continue to learn and grow even after this life, is another biggie. And, of course, there’s our understanding of the nature of God and humanity – that we are all spirit children of God, with the potential to become like Him. These doctrines shape how we view everything else, including the significance of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. While some of these concepts might not perfectly align with other Christian traditions, they provide a beautiful and rich framework for understanding our relationship with God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Worship Practices and the Themes of Holy Week

Sunday: The Heartbeat of LDS Worship

Alright, picture this: Sunday morning, you’re heading to an LDS Church meeting. What’s it like? Well, think of it as a spiritual recharge station! The main event is Sacrament meeting, a time for the whole congregation to come together. It’s usually a little over an hour filled with hymns that can lift your spirits to the ceiling, thoughtful talks (sermons) given by members of the congregation, and of course, the sacrament. The sacrament is a sacred ordinance where we partake of bread and water in remembrance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. It’s a weekly opportunity to renew our covenants with God—kind of like hitting the “reset” button on our spiritual journey.

More Than Just Sunday School: Auxiliary Meetings

After Sacrament meeting, things branch out. There’s Sunday School, where adults and youth dive deeper into the scriptures. Then there are the auxiliary meetings: Primary for the kiddos (think singing, stories, and maybe a few rogue crayons), Young Men/Young Women for the teenagers (discussions, activities, and maybe a little awkwardness—it’s all part of the experience!), and Relief Society for the women (friendship, service, and some seriously good potluck recipes). Each of these meetings focuses on different aspects of gospel learning and community building.

Sacrifice, Redemption, and Gratitude: The Unofficial Themes of the Year

Now, here’s the cool part: even though the LDS Church doesn’t have a formal Holy Week observance, the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and gratitude are woven into pretty much everything we do throughout the year. You’ll hear it in the sermons, see it in the lessons, and definitely feel it in the hymns. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is, like, the cornerstone of LDS belief, so it’s a topic that comes up a lot. Think of it as the underlying melody in all of our worship. Whether it’s a talk about forgiveness, a lesson on service, or a hymn about Christ’s love, those themes are always there, quietly reminding us of the depth and breadth of His sacrifice.

Holy Week: Formality vs. Focus

So, does the LDS Church do the whole Holy Week thing with specific services or programs? Generally, no. And here’s why: because the focus on Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection isn’t just limited to one week. It’s a year-round, all-the-time kind of thing. Instead of focusing on specific days, the emphasis is on integrating these principles into our daily lives. It’s about remembering, reflecting, and renewing our commitment to follow Jesus Christ every single day, not just during a designated “holy” week. It’s a subtle but significant difference in approach.

LDS Scriptures: Testaments of Christ’s Atonement

• The Bible: Let’s start with the OG testament of Jesus Christ! Passages such as Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, and John 19 offer detailed accounts of Christ’s crucifixion. These aren’t just stories; they’re the groundwork for understanding the immense sacrifice made for us. Romans 5:8 proclaims, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,” a powerful reminder of divine love in action.

• Book of Mormon: This is where things get even more personal for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Alma 7:11-13 beautifully articulates Christ’s empathy and comprehensive Atonement: “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.” It goes on to explain that He will take upon him the pains and sicknesses of his people that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities, and he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people. In 2 Nephi 9:21, it boldly declares, “He cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children.” This scripture, along with the numerous testimonies of Christ throughout the Book of Mormon, illustrates that Christ had to descend below all things for him to ascend above all things, to know how to succor us in our pains and afflictions.

• Doctrine and Covenants: Speaking of a modern testament, Section 19 contains the Lord’s own words about the intensity of His suffering: “Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.” (D&C 19:18-19). This intimate glimpse into Gethsemane amplifies our gratitude for His sacrifice.

• Pearl of Great Price: Moses 6:57 offers a direct declaration of Christ’s role in the Plan of Salvation: “Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere, must repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his presence; for, in the language of Adam, Man of Holiness is his name, and the name of his Only Begotten is the Son of Man, even Jesus Christ, a righteous Judge, who shall come in the meridian of time.”

How do these scriptures shape our view of Good Friday and Easter? They provide a unified, resounding declaration of Jesus Christ as the central figure of our faith. Easter becomes more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of a literal resurrection, a victory over death, and the promise of eternal life. The themes of sacrifice, suffering, and redemption are not confined to a single Friday but are woven into the very fabric of our faith, highlighted and underscored by these rich, diverse scriptures.

So, there you have it! While Mormons might not have Good Friday services like some other Christian denominations, they absolutely honor the sacrifice of Jesus Christ every single day. It’s all about focusing on the Savior’s love and Atonement, which, when you think about it, is something pretty special.