Sharing the Gospel
List of Terms


“List of Terms,” What to Expect When Visiting with Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (2015)

“List of Terms,” What to Expect

List of Terms

Book of Mormon—A sacred ancient record (600 B.C.–420 A.D.), comparable to the Holy Bible, made by special servants of God (prophets). This record testifies of Jesus Christ and contains the teachings of God.

Church—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, restored by Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ in modern times. This term also refers to the buildings where members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meet and to the meetings held there.

God—This term usually refers to our Heavenly Father. However, in some instances the term “God” may also apply to Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father—The Father of our inner selves, the part of us that makes us uniquely us (that part is often called our “spirit”).

Holy Bible—A sacred ancient record (4,000 B.C.–90 A.D.) made by special servants of God (prophets) that testifies of Jesus Christ and contains the teachings of God.

Jesus Christ—The Son of God. Born approximately 2,000 years ago, He taught how to live in accordance with God’s will, lived a perfect life, suffered for all human temptations and sins, was crucified, and was raised to live again forever. He made it possible for us to become clean from sin and to live in the presence of our Heavenly Father after we die.

Missionaries—Typically young men and women who serve for up to 24 months by their own choice. They are not paid; in fact, most pay their own expenses.

Mormon—A general label sometimes applied to those who believe and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ as found in the Holy Bible and the Book of Mormon.

Prayer—The way an individual speaks to God. Through prayer, we can express our feelings, thank Him, and ask for help, protection, and direction.

Prophet—A person who has been selected by and speaks for God. His primary responsibility is to bear witness of Jesus Christ.

Scriptures—A general label for a special collection of sacred ancient and modern books that come through prophets, testify of Jesus Christ, and contain the teachings of God. The Holy Bible and the Book of Mormon are among those books that are considered scripture.