Latter-day Saint Theology among Christian Theologies

“Anyone who still identifies Mormonism with the anti-Christian ‘cults’ should read this wonderful book. Grant Underwood is a gifted Latter-day Saint historian who has established his reputation as an authoritative chronicler of developments in Mormon doctrinal teachings. Now in this impressive work he shows us how Latter-day Saint thought should be seen as occupying a legitimate place in the theologies of the broad Christian community. Underwood treats the major themes of classical theology—such as the divine attributes, Christ’s atoning work, grace, ‘good works,’ and the power of the Holy Spirit—with empathy, clarity, and an obvious desire to be faithful to the heart of the Gospel. This book is a groundbreaking accomplishment in fostering mutual understanding where there has long been theological name-calling!”
—Richard J. Mouw, Fuller Theological Seminary
 
“In this monumental work, Grant Underwood, drawing on decades of ecumenical experience, produces a good-faith effort that assists interested readers in understanding the similarities and differences between Christian theology broadly defined and Latter-day Saint theology. Using the former to set the theological agenda for the latter, Underwood’s work exhibits a genuine appreciation for the individual scholars and traditions that he engages. Eschewing the kinds of polemical approaches often found in theological comparisons between the Latter-day Saint tradition and other religious traditions, Underwood succeeds in producing a landmark publication that facilitates a better understanding of Latter-day Saint theology for those outside the tradition, as well as theological students located within it. Both the author and the publisher are to be commended for producing this fine volume.”
—John Christopher Thomas, Pentecostal Theological Seminary
 
“Underwood provides readers a comprehensive tour de force of Latter-day Saint beliefs. With consummate care, he details where Mormonism parallels and departs from core elements of Christian theology. This is an indispensable analysis by a scholar who knows his tradition inside and out.”
—Colleen McDannell, University of Utah
 
“Knowing that in the past his church was a marginalized minority, often portrayed as a cult with little or nothing in common with orthodox Christian faith, Grant Underwood has spent a lifetime exploring how the Latter-day Saints fit into the history and theology of the larger Christian world. In this remarkable book, he addresses that question with scholarship of the highest order—well-informed, balanced, and gracious. This book embodies the insights of both the world-class scholar and the gentle and generous Christian that I have known Grant Underwood to be for many, many years.”
—Richard T. Hughes, Lipscomb University