Three Key Changes that Could Help the Christian LDS Church Gain More Followers

Three Key Changes that Could Help the Christian LDS Church Gain More Followers

By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS

As someone who has lived many lives—from an ex-Muslim immigrant to a former vegan and socialist, to now being a proud Christian Conservative member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS)—I’ve seen both the struggles and successes of religious movements. One thing I have come to realize is that the LDS Church, despite its growing global presence, could benefit from some critical changes to attract more followers, especially among those who may be turned off by certain institutional practices. If the LDS Church were to reconsider some of its more rigid policies, I believe it could gain not just members, but an engaged, committed global community. Specifically, there are three key changes that could help the Church expand its reach: eliminating the mandatory observance of the Word of Wisdom, eliminating compulsory tithing, and embracing Christian symbols, particularly the cross.

1. Remove the Requirements of the Word of Wisdom

One of the most defining aspects of the LDS Church is its strict dietary guidelines, known as the Word of Wisdom. While this code, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol, coffee, tea, and tobacco, is respected by many, it can be a significant barrier to those interested in joining the faith. For many potential converts, especially those coming from non-LDS backgrounds, these rules are viewed as burdensome and overly restrictive.

The early church, in its beginnings, did not place the same emphasis on these dietary restrictions. Historical records show that Joseph Smith himself allowed some degree of freedom in these matters, and early LDS communities were not as stringent as they are today. If the LDS Church could return to the flexibility that existed in the early days, it would become more appealing to a wider audience. A Church that is less rigid about its dietary rules would allow for a more inclusive approach, where converts don’t feel alienated by a set of practices that may not resonate with them.

Additionally, by focusing more on the spiritual teachings of the gospel rather than making the Word of Wisdom a fundamental pillar of membership, the Church could attract individuals who are looking for a faith based on universal principles rather than adherence to a set of rules that feel culturally out of touch for many.

2. Eliminate Compulsory Tithing

Tithing, the practice of donating 10% of one’s income to the Church, is another central requirement for active membership in the LDS Church. While tithing is rooted in scripture and is a key part of LDS tradition, it is a point of contention for many, particularly for those who are financially struggling or who come from backgrounds that do not have the same cultural expectations around giving.

Many individuals, especially younger generations, find the idea of compulsory tithing to be an undue financial burden. While tithing may be seen as a reflection of faith, it can also be a significant hurdle for those who are uncertain about the financial stability of the Church or who feel that the practice seems more like a financial obligation than a voluntary act of faith.

By removing the mandatory nature of tithing, the Church would be able to emphasize generosity, rather than guilt. Voluntary giving could allow individuals to feel more comfortable engaging with the Church without the added pressure of a financial commitment that they might feel unable to meet. It would also allow members to focus more on their personal relationship with God rather than worrying about meeting a financial requirement.

3. Embrace Christian Symbols like the Cross

For many, one of the most significant aspects of the LDS Church that differentiates it from other Christian denominations is the absence of traditional Christian symbols, especially the cross. The cross is one of the most recognized symbols of Christianity, and its absence in the LDS Church is often seen as a disconnect from the wider Christian community.

Historically, early members of the Church did not shy away from Christian symbolism. In fact, Joseph Smith and the early LDS community were not opposed to using Christian symbols as a means of identifying with the broader Christian tradition. Over time, however, there was a move away from using the cross and other traditional Christian imagery, a decision that some modern members may find troubling, as it alienates the LDS Church from its Christian roots.

By embracing symbols like the cross, the LDS Church would not only show solidarity with the broader Christian community, but it would also send a powerful message about its commitment to following the teachings of Jesus Christ. Allowing for the use of crosses in personal and institutional settings could make the faith more relatable to those who are familiar with traditional Christian imagery and could help break down the barriers that separate LDS members from the larger Christian world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe that if the LDS Church were to adopt these three changes—removing the requirement of the Word of Wisdom, eliminating compulsory tithing, and embracing Christian symbols—it would become more inclusive, more accessible, and more in line with the original vision of the Church. The early LDS Church was, in many ways, more flexible and open in its approach to worship and its relationship with the broader Christian community. By returning to these principles, the Church could not only retain its existing members but also attract a new generation of believers who are searching for a faith that is both spiritually enriching and free from the constraints of institutional bureaucracy. These changes would allow the Church to fulfill its mission more effectively and expand its influence in a world that is constantly changing.

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Citations:

1. Joseph Smith, "History of the Church," Vol. 1, p. 107.
2. Kimball, Spencer W., The Miracle of Forgiveness. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969.
3. Bushman, Richard Lyman, Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2005.
4. Walker, Ronald W., The Mormon Experience: A History of the Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1980.