Mormonism, formally known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), is a Christian restorationist religion founded by Joseph Smith in the 1820s in New York. The faith centers on the belief that Smith received divine revelations, including the Book of Mormon, which followers believe contains writings of ancient prophets who lived in the Americas. Mormons believe that Jesus Christ visited the Americas after his resurrection and that the true church of Christ was restored through Smith's revelations. The religion emphasizes the importance of modern-day prophets, eternal families through temple marriages, personal revelation, and adherence to moral principles including abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and coffee. Today, the church is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has millions of members worldwide.
​“We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men.”

Brief History of Mormonism
Mormonism, formally known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), traces its origins to Joseph Smith in the 1820s. Smith claimed divine visions, including the First Vision in 1820, where God and Jesus Christ instructed him to restore Christianity. In 1830, he published the Book of Mormon, which he translated from golden plates he said were revealed by the angel Moroni. The church faced persecution, leading migrations from New York to Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. After Smith’s murder in 1844, Brigham Young led followers to Utah in 1847, establishing Salt Lake City as the faith’s headquarters. Key milestones include the 1890 end of polygamy and the 1978 revelation allowing Black men to hold the priesthood.
Key Proponents

• Joseph Smith: Founder and first president.
• Brigham Young: Second president; led migration to Utah.
• Modern Prophets: Includes Gordon B. Hinckley (global expansion), Thomas S. Monson, and current president Russell M. Nelson.

Important Principles

1. Modern Revelation: Belief in ongoing divine guidance through living prophets.
2. Scriptural Canon: The Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.
3. Eternal Families: Temple ordinances seal families beyond mortality.
4. Plan of Salvation: Pre-mortal existence, mortal probation, and eternal progression toward godhood.
5. Missionary Work: Emphasis on global proselytizing.

Most Important People

1. Joseph Smith
2. Brigham Young
3. Oliver Cowdery (early scribe and witness)
4. Emma Smith (Joseph’s wife, early Relief Society leader)
5. Parley P. Pratt (apostle and theologian)

Three Key Books

1. The Book of Mormon: Chronicles ancient American prophets and Christ’s post-resurrection ministry.
2. Doctrine and Covenants: Revelations to Joseph Smith on church governance and doctrine.
3. Pearl of Great Price: Contains translations of ancient writings and the Articles of Faith.

Ten Important Quotes/Scriptures

1. 2 Nephi 25:26 (Book of Mormon):
   “We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ… that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.”
2. Mosiah 2:17 (Book of Mormon):
   “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God.”
3. Moroni 10:4-5 (Book of Mormon):
   “Ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true… by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”
4. Doctrine and Covenants 1:38:
   “Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.”
5. Moses 1:39 (Pearl of Great Price):
   “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.”
6. Alma 34:33 (Book of Mormon):
   “Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance… for after this day of life, the night of darkness cometh.”
7. 3 Nephi 11:10-11 (Book of Mormon):
   “Behold, I am Jesus Christ… I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me.”
8. Articles of Faith 1:13:
   “We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men.”
9. Doctrine and Covenants 130:22:
   “The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones.”
10. Joseph Smith—History 1:17 (Pearl of Great Price):
    “I saw two Personages… One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said… ‘This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!’”

This overview captures Mormonism’s foundational history, figures, doctrines, and scriptures, reflecting its emphasis on restoration, revelation, and eternal progression.

Here is a table showing the top 10 countries with the largest Mormon populations, total populations, and corresponding percentages:

​Here are the ten most popular YouTube videos on Mormonism, based on viewership and relevance:

1. "The REAL Story of the Mormon Church" by Johnny Harris, August 9, 2023, 24:55, Youtube
   This documentary-style video traces Joseph Smith’s evolution from treasure hunter to prophet, contextualizing Mormonism’s origins within 19th-century American expansionism and religious fervor. It critiques Smith’s storytelling prowess and the LDS Church’s historical persecution and migration to Utah.
2. "What is Mormonism? And is it different than Christianity?" by Radical, November 16, 2023, 6:11, Youtube
   A concise breakdown of Mormon theology, contrasting it with mainstream Christianity. Topics include the Book of Mormon’s origins, the Godhead as separate beings, and doctrines like eternal progression and pre-mortal existence.
3. "The Cult of Mormonism" by Philion, October 18, 2022, 1:08:22, Youtube
   A critical deep-dive into Joseph Smith’s life, framing Mormonism as a 19th-century fabrication. It examines polygamy, financial controversies, and theological divergences from Christianity, arguing the faith operates like a corporation.
4. "Why Are Mormons?" by Mr. Beat, November 16, 2024, 36:42, Youtube
   This video chronicles Mormonism’s history from Smith’s visions to Brigham Young’s leadership in Utah. It highlights key events like the Missouri Mormon War, extermination orders, and the establishment of Salt Lake City.
5. "Inside Largest Mormon Community - First Impressions" by Peter Santenello, November 18, 2023, 21:49, Youtube
   An immersive look at daily life in a Utah Mormon community, emphasizing family values, missionary work, and cultural practices. Santenello explores how members navigate modernity while adhering to traditional beliefs.
6. "What Every Christian Needs to Know About Mormonism" by God Loves Mormons, February 25, 2024, 26:51, Youtube
   A Christian perspective on Mormon theology, comparing LDS teachings (e.g., the nature of God, salvation through works) to biblical doctrine. Aims to equip Christians for interfaith dialogue.
7. "The BIG Difference Between Mormonism and the Bible" by Living Waters, July 23, 2022, 32:56, Youtube
   Ray Comfort debates Mormon doctrines like the Book of Mormon’s authority, the Trinity vs. Godhead, and salvation through grace versus works. Includes street evangelism encounters.
8. "Mormon Founder's Fabricated 'First Visions'" by Zelph on the Shelf, April 20, 2024, 1:33:00, Youtube
   Analyzes inconsistencies in Joseph Smith’s accounts of his First Vision and Book of Mormon translation. Uses historical records to question the credibility of early Mormon narratives.
9. "Meet the Mormons: Inside a Fundamentalist Community" by ENDEVR Documentary, October 8, 2023, 2:55:48, Youtube
   Explores Rockland Ranch, a fundamentalist Mormon community in Utah. Focuses on polygamous families, isolationist practices, and the challenges of maintaining a separatist lifestyle.
10. "Can We Answer Google's TOP QUESTIONS About Mormonism?" by Hello Saints, December 1, 2024, 43:22, Youtube
    A collaborative Q&A addressing common queries about Mormon beliefs (e.g., temple garments, caffeine policies) and Evangelical-Mormon theological differences. Features a pastor and LDS member.

These videos collectively explore Mormonism’s history, theology, cultural impact, and controversies, offering perspectives from believers, critics, and scholars. Topics range from Joseph Smith’s visions and polygamy to modern-day practices and interfaith dialogue.
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