Well, historically speaking, many of the fundamental tenants of orthodox Christianity were determined by the popular vote of people. The assumption that their wisdom was equal to God’s is a shaky one, and some of the results of their decisions are quite clearly extra-Biblical in nature.
Over time, some of the fundamental things were lost or changed.
Does this make adherents of orthodox Christianity bad? Of course not.
We believe that a full restoration of all the lost bits of doctrine was necessary; that God’s wisdom is higher than man’s; and that God continues to speak to His children. This necessarily brings us into sharp relief against orthodoxy on many points.
But on the most important thing - the Lordship and Godship of Jesus Christ - we are united. This brings us together - or should - on many societal issues. All we propose to do is offer to others the opportunity to learn more of what we believe is the truth.
What points of Christian doctrine are extra-Biblical?
Maybe I need to brush up on my early church history, but it’s my understanding that the church was dealing with schisms, and in order to preserve and protect the teachings of the apostles and the Bible, they spelled them out clearly in writing so as to counter any errant teachings.
Here is the Nicene Creed:
“I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.
And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made.
Who, for us men for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end.
And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life; who proceeds from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets.
And I believe one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.”
What is there in the Nicene Creed that is extra-Biblical?
I am also wondering, why do Mormons feel the Bible in and of itself is insufficient in revealing the truth about God and salvation? Thanks for considering my questions.
In reading the New Testament, you will find that this belief is grounded in Christianity. God speaks to me. God doesn't need a prophet to speak to me. He answers my prayers ALWAYS.