Apostasy and Restoration Comparison of the Community of Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

stained glass depiction of first vision of joseph smith, completed in 1913 unknown artist (lds museum of church history , art).

the lds church teaches joseph smith restored fullness of gospel after centuries long period known great apostasy. lds church therefore characterizes restoration of fallen christianity , 1 true church exists. in contrast, community of christ has de-emphasized traditional tenet 1 true church , has adopted viewpoint faith traditions can offer pathway spiritual enlightenment. barbara mcfarlane higdon has called community of christ unique member of body of christ, universal community of believers. higdon suggests prior claims church had been restored tantamount idolatry. community of christ has therefore moved towards ecumenism , inter-faith dialogue. nevertheless, community of christ steadfastly affirms primacy of continuing revelation instead of creedal rigidity . community of christ s doctrine , covenants continues contain documents declare church 1 true church.

today, community of christ refers joseph smith s first vision grove experience , takes flexible view historicity, emphasizing healing presence of god , forgiving mercy of jesus christ felt smith. in contrast, lds church affirms reality of first vision , emphasizes role beginning of restoration of gospel through god s chosen prophet.