One of our core beliefs is that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true Church here on Earth. We proclaim this in our testimonies, lessons, and conversations. Although we know that this is true, do we sometimes unconsciously convey the wrong idea that we are God’s only people?
We are all encouraged to introduce the gospel of Jesus Christ and proclaim our faith to others. Because we know of the blessings that come from the gospel, we desire others to experience the same. But as we share our faith with others, we must be careful not to fall into the trap of unconsciously labeling other faiths and beliefs as incorrect. Belief in God brings out the best in our natures, and we don’t seek to put down anyone’s beliefs, only to take the good that they already have and add to it.
In our Articles of Faith, “We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.” In proclaiming our beliefs, this article of faith should become our guiding principle. God bestowed this privilege on all people, and we do not have the power or right to deprive anyone of that privilege. Think of the early Latter-day Saints who endured hardships and prejudice just so they could have the liberty to worship God freely. People of other faiths desire the same. Don’t we all?
We should also recognize the tremendous good that they do. If we think that we are the only ones doing good in a world of 7 billion, we need to think again. Imagine what the world would look like if only 15 million members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints did good in the world. People of other faiths also have divine natures given by God. Even though they do not have the gift of the Holy Ghost, they are blessed with the Spirit of Christ, which encourages all men to do good. And even though others do not have the fullness of the gospel, their righteous efforts are pleasing to God. We are also not the only people who have access to God’s blessings. God blesses all His children no matter their faith, even those who do not believe that He exists.
When we share our beliefs with others, we should not compare beliefs in an effort to convince people that we are better. Sharing our faith without despising other faiths is what the Lord wants us to do. Let us avoid finding fault and inconsistencies in the beliefs and principles of other faiths. Instead, let us focus on learning more about the gospel of Jesus Christ that we may increase our understanding and be able to better articulate our beliefs to others.
We are indeed blessed because we know the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ but we must remember that we are not God’s only people. People of other faiths are also His people. Even those who do not believe in God are His people. God sent His Only Begotten for all of us because every one of us is a part of His fold. We are all His children and His people regardless of what religion we belong. Sharing our faith with love for ALL of God’s people is what sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ really means.
